“With every struggle that she faced, she found some reason to embrace hope… now she has the strength of a warrior.”
-S. Marie
Rachel Wiley Director of Community Relations
Williams Executive Director
We don’t have a pool or pickleball court - because you’ll probably never use them.
We don’t have a pool. We haveAnita
As a lover of all things pink and fashionable, she loves creating art that depicts the beauty of diverse women. Her works show off how trendy and stylish women can be as she incorporates vibrant flowers, delicious foods, cozy beverages, glamorous make-up, and well-known name brands. The uniqueness of her work is easily spotted from her bright, bold, and colorful creations.
To see more of her fabulous work, please visit: Website: en.navasyart.com IG: www.instagram.com/navasy
Publisher
Delores Blount
Sales & Marketing Director
Susan Bryant Editor
Sarah Elaine Hawkinson
Account Executives
Erica Schneider
Gay Stackhouse
Art Director
Patrick Sullivan
Contributing Photographer
Chasing the Light Photography
Web Developer
Scott Konradt
Accounting
Gail Knowles
Executive Publishers
Jim Creel
Bill Hennecy
Since 2002, Sasee has been entertaining, informing, and inspiring readers as well as sharing dynamic experiences. The sister duo of Delores Blount (publisher) and Susan Bryant (sales and marketing director) created this local women’s magazine for a purpose; to be an inviting platform to reach other women by showcasing sophisticated, well-written editorials focused on personal interviews, lifestyle perspectives, fashion, home décor, food, art, and culture. After twenty-plus years, Sasee has evolved, just as all women do, and she’s not done growing yet.
As females, it is our privilege to acknowledge and appreciate the ever-changing natural phases of life. As females in the business world, it is more than okay to start over – and it is never too late to discover a new path. While continuing to encourage artists and creators who still find their written word and art to be their way to passionately fight the good fight… the time has come for some of the team to move away from the publishing industry. This is a bittersweet moment for the ladies in charge of the magazine as well as the editor, Sarah Elaine Hawkinson, to announce farewell – their Sasee hats are officially being passed along to a new owner, whoever she may be.
Sasee has had a print presence in the local market like no other and has never wavered from her original mission. However, the talented team has transitioned many times through the years. As we move into the digital world, the current team knows Sasee is ready for her next chapter as well. As of right now, this is her last issue for the year. She is still currently for sale, so please remain on the lookout for her grand return in 2024.
“Our team would like to give a special thanks to the readers, writers, advertisers, subscribers, and the entire community for your understanding and continued support. We feel an incredible amount of loyalty to the people who became not just readers but collectors of our work from the covers to the stories. It has been an honor to nurture Sasee as much as we can and now it is someone else’s chance to develop her potential beyond our imagination. Inspired by women everywhere, Sasee has forever been produced as a wonderful read and we look forward to seeing how she improves in the future.”
My niece had invited me to join her and her mother at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. For a country girl, a trip to downtown St. Louis with its snarled traffic and large crowds held no appeal. I declined.
After hanging up, I became overwhelmed with thoughts about breast cancer’s grip on my family. A routine mammogram in my forties revealed I had fallen prey to the dreaded disease. Several years later, my youngest sister followed in my footsteps. We shared turbans and tears and rejoiced when she joined the survivor club. But shortly before celebrating her five-year cancer-free milestone, the horrid disease appeared in her right breast. Luckily, once again, she beat the odds. Soon afterward, my daughter-in-law was diagnosed late in her pregnancy. She passed away shortly after her baby’s first birthday.
Clearly, I belonged at that race. I called my niece and announced, “Count me in!”
The morning of the event, I donned my pink survivor shirt, looked in the mirror, and smiled. We arrived at the event and marched over to the registration area to get our numbers. I blinked back tears when I spotted the huge sea of pink –fellow survivors.
Heredity links were evident – more than blue eyes and curly hair ran in many families. Bystanders wore T-shirts boasting victories – celebrating Moms, Sisters, Aunts, Nieces. One family proudly displayed posters of their elderly mother on a motorcycle, wearing a pink shirt and a huge grin. Others weren’t so fortunate. They held up signs: In Memory of “Grandma, Mom, Sister, Cousin.”
A tower of pink balloons with the renowned St. Louis Gateway Arch in the background designated the starting line. Survivors began to march forward as bands and singers serenaded. Cheerleaders chanted, “I am the cure!”
Rugged-looking bikers clad in pink, some with beards and hair dyed to match, rooted us on from their Harleys. With each stride, my heart swelled with pride.
The energy grew as we rounded a corner and merged into a large group from a local radio station. Their T-shirts displayed “I Love My Girls.” A fraternity pledged, “Big or Small – Save Them All.” A group of football players sported pink “Go Boob” shirts. A chorus of voices cheered us on.
As we crossed the finish line, volunteers thrust longstemmed pink roses in the arms of each survivor. Tears fell as I inhaled the sweet aroma from the flowers, proud to be part of so many courageous women – sisters in our fight against breast cancer.
On the way home, our group stopped for lunch. The server glanced at our survivor T-shirts and high-fived my sister and me. Customers sitting in nearby booths applauded.
An elderly gentleman tapped me on the shoulder and said, “I saw you on television. I’m glad you’re doing okay.”
We didn’t know it then, but only a few years later, my middle sister would also battle breast cancer. Thankfully, she too beat the disease.
I feel sure that someday a cure will be found, rendering the sea of pink totally dry. Until then, my family and I intend to support our ‘sisters’ along their journey.
Alice Muschany lives in Flint Hill, Missouri. She loves retirement. Every day is Saturday. When she’s not spending time with her grandchildren, she’s busy hiking, taking pictures, reading, and writing.
My name is Ricky Jones, I am single and always working or otherwise on the go.
I was unhappy with my weight and the way I looked in my clothes. Also, I am a certified scuba diver and love to dive. But I had not been diving in two years because my dive gear didn’t fit me anymore. I kept seeing your billboards and hearing about your program on the radio.
I chose Dr. Sattele’s program because dive season was nearing, and I was desperate to once again fit into my dive gear. My physical, mental, and emotional health has improved since taking part in Dr. Sattele’s Rapid Weight Loss Program. I’m back in the gym, running for fun as well as for fitness, and of course I’m once again able to enjoy exploring beneath the ocean’s waves.
Every year at the time of my yearly physical my doctor would say that I needed to lose weight and that by doing so I should be able to stop taking medication for my blood pressure which I have in fact been able to do.
I’ve lost 107 pounds; the program was easy to follow and I was able to eat real foods. Following the program changed the way that I think about food and the way it is prepared.
Dr. Sattele’s staff is helpful, encouraging, and supportive. I now have increased confidence. My family and friends are impressed with my progress and that I have been able to keep the weight off. I would and have recommended this program to family and friends because it is easy to follow. When you follow a structured eating plan learned while on the program you can keep the unwanted weight off even when you leave the program, you just need to try to always be mindful of the high calorie and fat gram mind field we all live in.
This program changes the way you think about eating and helps you to break bad habits of the “SUPER SIZE ME” society that we live in. With fast food restaurants and convenience stores stocked with snack cakes and potato chips as far as the eye can see, it is no wonder many of us have trouble with our weight. Once you see that you can structure an eating plan that gives you everything you need to be healthy and you see the positive changes in your life, it can become just as addictive as the junk food that is so readily available.
“My feet feel like they’re on fire.” “Each step feels like I’m walking through wet paint.” “I live in constant fear that I’ll fall. “I can’t sleep, my hands and feet tingle all night.” What do all of these people have in common? They suffer from peripheral neuropathy. It’s esti-mated that more than 20 million people in the United States have peripheral neuropathy Unfortunately this figure may be significantly higher as the disease is often mis-diagnosed because of its wide array of symptoms.
Dr Tonya Weber of AIM Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine in North Myrtle Beach shares this belief “I’ve been treating neuro-pathy, in all its various forms, for over two decades and so often my patients come to me because of the symptoms, not because of a diagnosis They saw one of my television specials, or read the testimonial of another patient and say to themselves ‘hey, I feel the same thing’.”
Frankie M. of Little River testified to this. “I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and I saw a woman running just outside our neighborhood I was so envious - I just kept thinking ‘I would give anything just to walk again’. My primary care doctor told me my troubles with pain and balance were just symptoms of old age and gave me a prescription I was so depressed ”
Fortunately Frankie would eventually see Dr. Weber on the local news talking about similar symptoms and how she offers a real solution at AIM Acupuncture “I just knew I had to see her She was my last hope ”
“Almost all of our patients come to us with a story similar to Frankie’s. They’ve been everywhere else. They’ve been told there’s no hope. They’ve been told ‘it’s just part of getting older’ ” shares Kelly, a Patient Care Technician at AIM “It just breaks my heart but I know how much we can help people like Frankie so I’m always so happy when they walk through our door."
Those diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy often face a very grim reality; Western medicine declares that there is no solution while most
alternative therapies carry large price tags and offer little to no resolve Which is why Dr. Weber and the staff at AIM pride themselves on being ‘the last resort with the best results’.
Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves and this damage is commonly caused by lack of blood flow in the hands and feet. A lack of blood flow results in a lack of nutrients; the nerves then begin to degenerate and die which causes pain ranging from discomfort to debilitating Because neuropathy is a degenerative condition, once those nerves begin to deteriorate they will continue to do so until they are completely expired, leaving those suffering with crippling balance issues. “In this case, the absence of pain is not necessarily a good thing,” shares Dr Weber “This usually indicates that your nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread.”
So how exactly is Dr. Weber able to reverse the effects of this degenerative disease? “Acupuncture has been used to increase blood flow for thousands of years which helps to get the necessary nutrients to the affected nerves. But the real magic happens when I integrate ATP Resonance BioTherapy™. This is tech that was originally developed by NASA to expedite recovering and healing ”
“I just can’t say enough about AIM,” Frankie shared through tears of joy. “My husband and I moved here 3 years ago and he’s gone to the beach almost everyday. I always stayed home because of the pain and discomfort. Yesterday I walked on the beach with him! And next week we’re starting shag dancing lessons. I am truly living life these days.”
According to Frankie’s test results, she has seen a 74% improvement in pain and functionality, which is on par with a majority of our patients,” shares Kelly
“But more important than those test results is the joy she's expressed being here and hearing about all the amazing things she’s able to do because she feels great!”
By seamlessly blending the ancient science of acupuncture with modern medical solutions Dr. Weber has achieved a 90% success rate in reversing the effects of neuropathy. She starts each patient with an initial consultation during which a sensory exam is performed
“This not only aids in making a proper diagnosis but it helps to define just how much nerve damage has occurred” tells the doctor. “This is important because if a patient has suffered more than 95% damage, there is little that I can do to help them I’m familiar with the medical miracle but I know my limits as a practitioner and the limits of my medicine.”
When it comes to treating peripheral neuropathy, regardless of its origin, early detection greatly improves your chances of a full recovery.
If you or someone you love are suffering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling or ‘pins and needles’ or you’ve recently been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, it’s important to know that there are options. There is hope.
Call (843)273-4467 to schedule an initial consultation or visit AIMLiveLife com to read more incredible success stories
As a registered dietitian who has made a career in helping with nutrition and wellness, Michelle Apple’s battle began in 2018 when she was diagnosed with metastatic stage 3 breast cancer. Everywhere she turned, kind words, offers to help, and sharing of success stories fueled her fight. Energized by the outpouring of encouragement, she created a nonprofit to share knowledge, give back, and inspire the warriors of the world.
The Apple Breast Cancer Warrior Foundation (ABC Warrior) is a leading local advocacy organization dedicated to creating awareness of breast care, prevention of breast cancer, and support for warriors in the journey of fighting breast cancer. These brave women need your support for their next event: Comfort Bags Collections. Fighting cancer any time of year is difficult, but even more so during the holidays as many cancer fighters may be in the hospital away from their
families or may not feel well enough to join traditional holiday events. ABC Warrior is collecting comfort bags to bring some reprieve to those who need a dose of optimism and hope. The bags, designed to provide comfort and warmth, will include items such as a blanket, lip balm, lotion, footies, games, books, puzzles, chocolates, and peppermint or lemon drops. The bags will be delivered to local cancer centers before the holidays in November at McLeod Health Oncology, Tideland Health Oncology, Conway Oncology, and Coastal Carolina Cancer Centers to bring a smile to all cancer patients as they go through this long journey.
For more information or to make a donation: www.applebcwarrior.com
330-519-2423
michelleapple71@icloud.com
“Do not let cancer define you but let it inspire you to help others.”
- Michelle Apple RD, LD -
Sitting, waiting at the Toyota dealership for three hours for a routine maintenance and annual inspection of my husband’s SUV, before we can pay the taxes on it, I saw a woman approach me. She stopped directly in front of me and stared at me as I read Run Rose Run.
“Honey, you must have some real good legs.”
“Huh?” I replied, confused, as I looked up from Dolly Parton’s novel.
“To sit like that.”
I had one leg tucked under me. I’ve sat this folded way since childhood. She continued, “Dat chair over der…” She signaled to a straight-back chair across the waiting room. “Dat chair’s talkin’ to my back…in German!”
I laughed. She shook her head and muttered “Lordy” and moseyed on. I thought then how much I enjoy random conversations with women in random places.
Girl Power.
What I interpret as girl power is the ability to strike up a dialogue with another female, a stranger even, and relate to her. Women my age have back issues. I’m glad I look approachable enough for this lady to want to commiserate with me and simultaneously compliment me. I’ve never thought of myself as particularly flexible - at least not in the past 30 years. I don’t exercise anymore.
Girl Power, to me, is a sisterhood where no matter one’s socio-economic, racial, educational or physical status, a female can relate to another woman because we all share certain commonalities, like backs aching as we age.
Some women say they marry their soulmates. My husband isn’t my soulmate. Not one of my boyfriends, when I was a teen, was either. My soulmates are my girlfriends. Back in grammar school, I was part of a Brownie troop, a sisterhood. One of those Brownies was my best friend Judy who rode bikes with me all over Cedarbrook Park in Plainfield, New Jersey. We had loads of adventures, especially when we crashed our cycles riding down Suicide Hill, and… discussions.
In high school, I had a group of close girlfriends with whom I attended parties, school dances, school clubs, and sports events, and I even played some sports, like field hockey. Kathy, my BFF in high school, and I strolled all over Scotch Plains, our town. She smoked her Virginia Slims while I spouted my theories on this or about that. We were each other’s counselors.
In college, my roommate Cora and I ate our meals together, shopped together, took some classes together, and even vacationed together freshman year. She lived in Florida. At age 18, I’d never been farther south than Durham, North Carolina where college was. Nonetheless, I thought I knew about Florida. I’d seen the movie Where the Boys Are. And from that film, I concluded that during spring break, the boys were in Florida. When I hurried out onto the beach in Sarasota, Florida, the youngest male on the beach was… my roommate’s retired father! “There are more boys on the Jersey shore,” I lamented. Cora told me I was on the wrong coast.
In college, I joined a sorority, and my Big Sis, Sally, included me in many activities. We’d stay up late, gabbing about whatever had transpired that day. She arranged a blind date for me with a cute boy from Georgia, who drove a Firebird. The Firebird is long gone, but that cute boy and I are still plugging on – four kids and eight grandkids later.
Teaching school in Atlanta, another teacher and I became best buddies, confidantes, and lifelong pals. Now, Beth and I chat almost every week all these years later. After my husband and I moved back to NC from GA, we settled in a small rural town, and through garden clubs, art-for-the-hospital society, church, the neighborhood, PTA, bridge groups, kids’ sports, and teaching, I met wonderful women. Many pals were the parents of kids my kids hung out with. Laura, Margaret, Jane, Donna, Betty, Eileen, and others I’m still in close contact with decades later – after our kids have grown and flown the coop.
Presently, as an empty nester living in a neighboring town to where we raised our children, I’ve met new pals through book clubs and volunteer activities and writing: Claudia, Cynthia, Claire, and Carol. And some I don’t see regularly, anymore, like Sheila, because of life situations changing and folks moving; yet we stay in touch. Other close pals are wives
of my husband’s friends like Becky and Dallas and now my pals, too.
I’ve never darkened a therapist’s threshold. I’ve friends – ladies who listen and to whom I listen. For some, the definition of Girl Power may mean attaining CEO status or graduating with a Ph. D or M.D. after your name or being a successful entrepreneur or selling a gazillion copies of one’s books through networking or many other things that signify success. Yet, for me, girl power is having female friends you trust and who trust you; sharing your life’s ups, downs, and in-betweens with empathetic folks, who aren’t your kin, employers, or anyone who has an obligation that forces them to accept you. Girl Power is a choice women make when they choose to connect to other women simply because they want to.
Like spiderman, women with their superpower reach out across divides, distances, and time to befriend other gals, having no other ulterior motive but seeking friendship. Girl power is that ability and blessing to understand our gender and to want to connect with other souls who understand what it means to be a female.
Dr. Callie Meeks is a native of South Carolina. She was raised in Edgefield, SC, where she enjoyed cheerleading, basketball and working on the local peach farm. She graduated from University of South Carolina Summa Cum Laude with a degree in biological sciences and medical humanities. She then attended medical school at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. She remained in Columbia, SC, and completed residency at Palmetto Health Richland Hospital in June 2016. Dr. Meeks was the Administrative Chief Resident during her senior year. She also served as an ACOG Junior Fellow for District IV.
Dr. Meeks is a Board Certified OBGYN. Her special interests include pediatric and adolescent gynecology, infertility evaluation, and sexual health and counseling. During her residency, she enjoyed participating in and promoting the SC Birth Outcome Initiative simulation workshops and spoke on a panel regarding Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) and preventing teen pregnancy in South Carolina.
Erika Hoffman
has lived most of her life in North Carolina. She’s very fond of the people here – the good people whose roots go back centuries and also the smart transplants who recognize what a beautiful state it is.
The business world of this day and age includes a rising number of female leaders. According to the National Association of Women Business Owners, there are a total of 12.3 million businesses owned by women, including your favorite magazine, Sasee. From startups to large scale establishments, females solve problems in new and creative ways due to their diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences. Businesswomen of all types of ventures have several characteristics in common, but most importantly and undoubtedly, they are all passionate, courageous, and resilient ladies. By supporting our local women-led businesses, you are investing into a future of economic success, innovation, and equality. Sasee hopes you are inspired by the many sensational and unique businesswomen featured in our women in business guide.
Melissa has often wondered what she wanted to be when she “grew up” ...turns out, she has been living her purpose all along. Her love language is “Gift Giving,” and she has always been passionate about giving just the right gift and celebrating the small things. The gift boutique, Good Deed Goods, that she owns with her daughter, was born out of that passion and their purpose is to help other people give well and celebrate intentionally no matter how big or small the occasion. As Melissa says, “A surcee won’t solve all the world’s problems, but it is sure to bring a bit of light, nonetheless!” After twenty years in business, she still enjoys carefully curating a collection of goods that bring joy, inspire hope, and encourage celebrating “just because.”
In her teens and twenties, Dr. Tonya suffered from intense cluster migraines 3-5 days a week. She was often bedridden and would become physically sick. Having migraines is a complicated condition not yet fully understood. Her options were prescription medications that did not work and lifestyle changes to limit triggers. It was no way to live. She was young and should’ve been living a bright, vibrant life. Instead, she was monitoring her daily caffeine intake, avoiding long exposure to fluorescent lights, and doing her best to prepare for changing weather conditions. She explained, “As you can imagine, Spring and Fall were especially tough, living in South Carolina, where it was Winter in the morning and Summer in the afternoon! It wasn’t until my primary care doctor sent me to an acupuncturist that I found real relief. Shortly after this incredible experience, I was inspired to go back to school to learn this amazing medicine and share it with the world!”
The mother-daughter duo who own Litchfield Books aim to keep their business a happy place with a kindness that joins like-minded individuals together with the power of reading and knowledge. “Our bookstore is eccentric!” They continued, “It showcases some of the world’s hidden talents among our many shelves. Independent bookstores are rare, but so important. When you are supporting a small business, you are keeping a community alive!”
As a third-generation owner of their family business, Olivia is grateful to have her mother as a built-in mentor. She taught her how to stand firm in what she believes, to build a warm business environment full of love and respect, and to always kill them with kindness. “Growing up, it was inspiring to watch my mom be this well-respected woman in the community while balancing motherhood and the family business with such grace. I’ve watched her navigate leadership, and to now have a seat at that same table is an honor.” Olivia continued, “I would not be who I am today without her support, guidance, and dedication. To know her is to love her and I’m blessed to call her mine.”
The Arbor Landing at Surfside team strives to create an attractive place to reside and work. Executive Director, Anita Williams explained, “The whole resident experience means everything to us. The most important way I personally measure success is by the satisfaction of our residents and staff. If they are not happy, then we have failed in our commitment to excellence. We are incredibly careful about who we choose to work for us. We want the best of the best and we usually succeed in finding the best.” Their team also values having a healthy work-life balance. For example, Director of Community Relations, Rachel Wiley said, “I always take time on the weekends to do things for myself and to regenerate before the work week begins. A healthy work-life balance is essential to maintaining overall well-being and happiness. When you have a job you love, it’s easier to balance life and work and I do love my job at Arbor Landing at Surfside.”
Arbor Landing at Surfside • Myrtle Beach • 843-492-7387
For any business, 2020 was a hard year. The start of a global pandemic was something no one had experience with. Although her 2nd generation business was 50 years old and well established, the possibility of closing for weeks or months was still a daunting thought. What did Dawn do? She worked hard, prayed, and persevered: “Small Business loans were an option that I considered. Then I read the fine print. I made the decision to step out on faith and trust that God would provide just as He has always had. By the end of that year, with closing for weeks, curbside pick-ups, drop-offs, masks, and sickness, I noticed that the amount I would have applied for, was in the account and all of our bills were paid. Not only that, but it was also the best year our family business had had in 50 years. That is truly a blessing from God.”
In the past 21 years, this business has dealt with a total loss by fire and flooded storefronts as well as the pains of running a business during Covid. “While navigating through these difficult times, one thing that remained was our faith that God had a better plan even if we could not see it at the time.” Ginger continued, “Often, we had to adjust our way of thinking and running a business to accommodate the situations we were in. During one flood, we even met customers and they shopped out of the back of a U-Haul. But, with the help and support of great friends and faithful customers, we were able to overcome the obstacles life threw at us and keep moving forward, learning from each experience along the way.”
Doodlebugs Children’s Finery & Gifts • Georgetown • 843-546-6858
Anderson Brothers Bank’s vision is to be a bank where people love to work and do business. This is a simple but bold statement and one that the bank strives to achieve every day. It’s also one of the reasons many small businesses look to ABB for their banking needs and why Debi finds it extremely rewarding to help a customer’s dream come true. She described her inspiration, “Although retired now, my mother was a very successful woman business owner during a time when there were not many women entrepreneurs. She had a strong work ethic and grew her business by word of mouth and relationship building. For any woman hoping to start a business, my advice would be to choose something you’re passionate about, find a mentor, network and build a community, persevere despite the obstacles you encounter, invest in yourself, and ask a lot of questions along the way.”
Anderson Brothers Bank • Multiple Locations • www.abbank.com
For anyone taking the exciting leap of starting a business, Jessica has 3 main pieces of advice, “The first is to be clear on WHY. Through good days and hard days, being grounded in the reason you started in the first place will help you stay motivated during difficult times and help you navigate all the factors that may require you to adjust your strategies. The second is to avoid comparing your business to others. Comparison is the thief of joy and everyone is on different journeys both personally and professionally. Finally, I highly recommend finding the people in your life who will help you be brave. You’ll want to share successes with someone who you know is in your corner cheering you on, and you’ll need that same person to remind you that you’re capable of doing hard things when they come your way. Owning my store is an amazing journey, and I wouldn’t trade the opportunity for anything!”
Dr. Meeks finds purpose in listening, treating, and improving patients’ wellbeing. The joy that the miracle of birth brings will NEVER get old for her. She believes if you do something you love, it will not feel like work. Her best advice to young female leaders is to embrace commitment. She clarified, “Continue to learn, grow, adapt, and progress. Be confident yet compassionate. Respect those around you and allow them to teach you. Educating teens and adolescents about their bodies taught me how to relate and listen to patients. There is reward and value in hard work. Relationships are based on honesty and trust. Find balance between work and home. Prioritize time for yourself and your family. You cannot pour from an empty cup! Take time to re-focus and re-energize so you can be the BEST physician, mother, friend, wife, etc. Be totally present wherever you are!”
Island Women’s Care • Pawleys Island • 843-235-1222
A common misconception about entrepreneurs is that in order to be “selfmade,” they must go the course alone; in fact, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Dr. Cara Lawson of Lawson Family Dentistry credits her network of friends, mentors, family, and of course, her team, for getting her to where she is today. Secondly, she highlights the importance of taking moments for reflection and processing through not only the challenges you may be facing, but cherishing the good moments that are riding right alongside them. Most importantly, Dr. Lawson’s biggest piece of advice is to refrain from comparison, which is often easier said than done. It’s a hard habit to “un-learn,” yet imperative to protect your peace. No two journeys look the same, and even more, no two personal definitions of success are identical. Instead of comparing, Dr. Lawson suggests celebrating the triumphs of not only your team, but the teams that comprise your industry and community.
CRG Homes is committed to serving their community by designing and building sustainable homes that are built to last. Terry’s true aspiration is to identify and remove barriers to safe shelter because she believes in supporting initiatives that help those in need. By aligning with organizations such as ECHO, Eastern Carolina Housing Organization, and Habitat for Humanity of Horry County, they combine resources and services to have the greatest impact on those who need it most within the community. To any female leader who is just getting started or even those who are already in business, Terry would like to “remind you that each experience you have along your journey will contribute to shaping your business and your personal growth. If there’s something you’re passionate about, or just curious to try, don’t hesitate to go for it. Always remember to invest in yourself, your team, and your community.”
As Vice President of Marketing, Nikki encourages the next generation of female leaders to “Be YOURSELF.” She explained, “We all have unique skills and talents that we bring to the table, and we should not change or compromise them in order to stay at the table. Don’t be scared to take risks that can benefit you and make you happy – always continue to learn and grow. Whether financially, spiritually, or physically, we must take time to renew and refresh so that we come back stronger, smarter, and ready to make a difference only we know how to do.” At GKCU, Nikki is not just in the financial services business but in the people business. As a member-owned financial cooperative, GKCU is more than a safe place to hold money until needed, it is the financial partner members can turn to throughout each stage of their lives. Their mission is simply: “People Serving with Purpose” and their vision is to serve members and leave “a legacy of improving lives.” GKCU
As the leader of a nonprofit, Meagan has had the great opportunity to live into the idea that if we set aside our differences to collaborate on the things that matter most to us as a diverse community, we can solve complex challenges. Habitat for Humanity of Horry County brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Their passion for a world where everyone has a decent place to live is fueled by the great, reconciling work of making space for partnerships to transform lives in ways both big and small. They are serious about measuring success and the quality of experiences that each employee, homebuyer, neighborhood resident, volunteer, donor, and community partner has with the mission. Megan exclaimed, “If we are bold enough to believe we can build a community where everyone has a decent place to live, then we must be committed enough to a shared experience where everyone belongs.”
Habitat for Humanity of Horry County • Myrtle Beach • 843-650-8815
Art is Samantha’s passion. Her purpose is to create, learn, and grow her craft as well as share the joy of creation with others. As Gallery Director, her favorite aspect is the people. “When I came here last year, everyone was incredibly welcoming. I immediately felt a part of this artistic community. This area is blessed with an amazing number of very talented artists and art aficionados and I get to work with them every day. Tangential to that is discovering new artists.” She continued, “Introducing someone to a paint brush in a simple Paint & Party and having that person then explore art on their own through taking classes and expanding their world is amazing. It’s incredibly satisfying finding new talent and giving them a platform on which to launch. I am driven to show people that art, and creating art, is not some unattainable goal. It is within reach, and we are all the better for having art in our lives.”
As a business owner, finding balance can be a challenge. Tracy tries to limit how much time she spends on work each day. She finds that it helps if she gives herself a schedule of tasks to complete and has also learned to accept that if it doesn’t all get done, that’s okay. She also strives to make time to do something un-work related, cooking dinner, go out with friends, watch a movie, just something to unwind for a bit. Tracy came across the consignment shop she bought by chance. The business has since changed quite a bit and is more of a one stop furniture and home decor store. She explained, “I still work with local vendors for the smaller home decor items, and we build our own furniture now. We recently added an upholstered furniture line. Many if not most of the items in the store can be custom built and are locally made! We still offer a lot of handmade gifts and accessories - there’s something for everyone here.”
White Pine Artisan Market • Little River • 843-734-1551
As a Client Services & Marketing Associate, Brandi’s favorite part of her job is the clients along with working with an excellent team. Her days at the office all look different which keeps it interesting. As an extrovert, networking brings her joy. She loves connecting and helping clients see how they define wealth. She explained, “We believe that no client is alike. With unique goals and different aspirations in life, it’s up to us to help each of our clients define what ‘wealth’ means to them personally, and what it may look like in the future. Life is coming at all of us so fast these days. My mindset is to stay kind, thoughtful, and positive every day. If you follow these simple rules, life will treat you well.” Brandi’s advice to all women in business is to follow your heart, dream big, focus on your niche, and always remember to have fun!
Define Wealth Financial Group • Pawleys Island • 843-314-0496
Gail has been devoted to her work forever. Although she loves and takes pride in her work, sometimes she gets so involved in the business that it seems like that’s all she does. In order to create a healthy work-life balance, she has committed herself to another thing that makes her happy, shag dancing. She has been a part of the Shag Community for about twenty years, and it is her favorite activity away from work. Wednesday and Friday nights are her designated dance nights and even if she has company in town, they know that it’s her “thing.” She always invites her guests, but they know she is going either way and they totally understand. Gail has found what works for her and motivates all women to find their own stress relief and a healthy balance.
In 1983, Kelly’s father opened the furniture store. She was twenty years old and working for the family company along with running her own. A year later, her father unexpectedly passed, and her mother was left with 5 small children. Inspired by the wonderful job her mom did, she was motivated to get busy! Her Grandmother was also an inspiration as she was instrumental in starting a backyard business that became a world-leading textile empire. She always remained humble, kind, and loving to all. Kelly’s daughter, Shannon possesses those same great qualities and is a wonderful member of the Owl’s Nest team now. Kelly is thankful for many wonderful customers, coworkers, and co-owners to be celebrating their 40th anniversary at Owl’s Nest Furniture. Their continued success is owed to their team for doing their best and remembering S.A.L.E.S. - Solutions-Always-Leave-EveryoneSmiling!
Owl’s Nest Furniture • Surfside • 843-238-1902
Heather and her husband were first inspired to start their business because of Heather’s mother-in-law, Eva Walton, who owned and operated successful Security businesses beginning in the mid-1980s. She was an amazing woman who also offered security programs to help schools and students. Secondly, they were inspired by Heather’s experience with an armed robbery: “My firsthand knowledge of the dangers and vulnerabilities that individuals can face underscored the importance of security and self-defense. Additionally, my personal advocacy for security measures at my former workplace and the denial of those requests further highlighted the gap in the market for comprehensive security solutions.” Heather continued, “I take pride in raising awareness about the importance of security and self-defense, helping others be safe, and advocating for security systems in businesses. Teaming up with a local organization to teach self-defense classes to the community is a passion! I am all about empowering others and ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves, no matter who they are, where they live, or what resources they have. Everyone should feel safe in their home, at work, and in the community.”
Feather-adorned earrings, cuff bracelets and necklaces carefully crafted by a team of artisans in Charleston, SC. Each piece takes between four and five hours to produce and passes through eight sets of hands before it reaches yours.
“Goodbye, girls. Sayonara, sistas.”
It was the morning of what would be an eleven-hour bilateral mastectomy, hysterectomy, and reconstruction surgery. It was the start of the biggest fight with myself. A battle of vanity and dependency, I prematurely assumed I lost.
I turned toward the mirror to say my goodbyes to the ‘ladies’ talking to them as if they were my bosom buddies. “We were a great team. You’ve done me well. But you’re starting to hang, and new breasts are one of the best perks I get with this cancer fight.”
It was the Mourning of the Breasts.
As I mourned the battle of the breasts, I had to find some good in all this. I couldn’t bear the reality that I would be endowed with fake useless parts, unable to feel or work naturally – as if they were in a terminal coma.
This was my second cancer diagnosis. They informed me the reconstruction had a high rate of failure because of nerve damage from past treatments, but my gut urged me to take the risk. Negativity serves no good purpose, so I tried to destroy any incoming adverse thoughts by quickly replacing them with antagonistic or creative thoughts.
In the prep room that early March morning, I opened my robe and stood naked for the team of surgeons, each holding a colored marker. As they decorated me with circles and lines, I said jokingly, “I feel like a whiteboard, and you have each plotted your individual joint maneuvers on me.”
Humor covered my fear and exposure. It bothered me that I was about to lose a part of me that played an important role in my life. A part that defined me. A supplement to my beauty.
Prior to the day, I discussed with the plastic surgeon the sizes and options I could choose from. The process seemed comparable to ordering from a fast-food restaurant menu. First, the doctor advised me to look at the portfolio (menu) of different sizes.
“Did you want a small, medium, or large?” Do you want nipples with that?”
I couldn’t help myself and chuckled, “Yes, I might want fries, I mean nipples, with that!” The laughter masked my anxiety.
If I chose a smaller size than the original, I would lose several pounds! I ordered a double mastectomy, thirty-four medium, about a three-pounder, hold the nipples.
The doctors walked out of the tiny room in a single file. Dr. Patel stood last in line and turned toward me from the doorway, “You might want to take this time to say goodbye to the girls.” The surgeons left, and I crawled back onto the hospital bed, alone with my thoughts, waiting for the anesthesiologist to arrive.
During the next year and a half, it took several more procedures to complete the reconstruction. The implant expander alone took a few months. I felt like a female Frankenstein, being put together piece by piece.
By December, I prepared for the last stage to complete reconstruction, but I had been undecided about adding nipples. At this point in life, they served no purpose.
The more I examined the necessity of adding nipples, the more I discovered I needed the nipples for emotional support. It was for the same reason I wanted the reconstruction. I didn’t want to look down and see a thick horizontal scar across my chest. For me, the scar would trigger unwanted cancer memories. Nipples would complete the look. I assumed it would make me feel whole.
They took the skin graft from my thigh to create the nipple and areola. It would be two weeks before I could remove the bandage. Two weeks from the nipple reconstruction would be December 25. I was excited as a kid finding out their getting what they listed on their holiday wish list. “I’m getting nipples for Christmas,” I sang to everyone.
The suspense of what they looked like kept me awake that night. Early Christmas morning, I unwrapped the new body part, slowly removing the gauze and tape. As soon as I got a glimpse – I gasped in horror. I unveiled the biggest nipple I had ever seen! Not that I am a nipple connoisseur, but the piece was as thick and long as a tootsie roll. The surgeon warned me that the nipple would be dark and enlarged for weeks but eventually, it would appear normal.
The last step was to get the areola tattooed a darker skin color. By now, I was weary of hospitals and surgeries and put it off until sometime in the future.
Forward twelve years later, I still have a colorless areola that you can barely see. I don’t care. The nipple shrank; it also flattened. I don’t care. The breasts remain a bit deformed, with tons of scars, but still perky! Nobody cares. The only thing that mattered was staying alive.
I realized my original and reconstructed breasts did not define me. They are both beautiful boobies in their own way. Relationships of any kind did not change for the worse when they removed the original breasts, as I believed would happen.
Every so often there’s an opportunity to show off the Sistas who give hope to another cancer survivor; the plastic surgeon is truly an artist and a lifesaver in more ways than they realize.
It is the Morning of the Breasts.
When I look down at my bare chest, I’m reminded how my body became a battlefield, but grew in strength and beauty. I look at the girls that allowed me life, and I sing, “Sayonara Sickness. Hello Life. Don’t rumble with me, again!”
Nina Ward is a published author of fiction and nonfiction in a variety of publications. When she is not writing, you can find her kayaking or embracing a beach sunset.
Three days of shopping fun! Pottery, jewelry, paintings, photography, turned wood, glass, artisan-made ornaments, and more! Plus gift certificate drawings, tasty holiday treats, and refreshments. See you then!
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