Lydia’s Legacy hosted its third annual Teal Over Miami on Saturday, Sept. 21, at the Courtyard Marriott Coconut Grove and downtown Miami’s Bank of America tower was lit up in teal shading to honor the event. Lydia’s Legacy was founded by Carin Ross Johnson in memory of her mother, Dr. Lydia Greene Ross. The organization is dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, supporting survivors and supporting education about gynecologic cancers. Teal Over Miami is the group’s annual fundraiser and it featured a silent auction, live music, health and wellness exhibits and raffles.
“Since our first Teal Over Miami, I continue to be amazed by the support from the local community,” said Johnson. “This year’s event focused on service to cancer patients. We asked attendees to bring hygiene products, journals and puzzle books to support newly diagnosed women with cancer. We also featured the best dessert bar in Miami, all in “teal,” the awareness color for women’s gynecologic cancers.”
Proceeds from the event will provide funding for cancer support and education in Miami-Dade. Since its founding in 2011, Lydia’s Legacy donated more than $15,000 to organizations focused on gynecologic cancer research, survivor care and finding a cure. The second annual Teal Over Miami event raised almost $7,000.
Dr. Ross was a leader in the Miami-Dade Community and lost her three year battle with cancer in 2010. Her concern through her battle with gynecologic cancer was that there was not enough awareness of the disease and the idea for Lydia’s Legacy was formed. During her memorial service, teal ribbons were given to more than 300 attendees and thousands of dollars in donations to the National Foundation for Women’s Cancer were raised and donated in her honor.