Show notes
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Rhonda Spratt. Founder of Bella Duvet Goes Pink, a Georgia‑based breast cancer awareness nonprofit inspired by her mother’s battle with metastatic breast cancer. Rhonda explains how her mother’s passing drove her to build a year‑round awareness and support organization specifically focused on ensuring women stay vigilant outside of October. She discusses early detection, the emotional and physical realities of breast cancer, the creation of her “Pink Box” care packages, her personal journey of healing, and how she balances nonprofit work with a full‑time commercial real estate career and active lifestyle. 🎯 Purpose of the Interview The interview aimed to: 1. Spotlight Bella Duvet Goes Pink A nonprofit dedicated to breast cancer awareness, education, and providing care boxes to women undergoing treatment. 2. Emphasize the importance of year‑round breast cancer advocacy Rhonda advocates that breast cancer isn’t an “October thing”—women are diagnosed every day, and early detection saves lives. 3. Share her personal story of loss, purpose, and healing Her mother’s death from metastatic breast cancer inspired her to transform grief into action. 4. Educate listeners on early detection, mammograms, stages of breast cancer, and survivor needs She clarifies differences between stages, importance of mammograms, and the emotional impact of mastectomies. 5. Encourage community involvement and proper nonprofit management She discusses partnerships, consistency, the need for help, and how small nonprofits can sustain support. 💡 Key Takeaways 1. Early Detection Saves Lives Rhonda stresses that breast cancer does not wait for October, and survival rates dramatically increase with early detection. Monthly breast self‑exams Annual mammograms Awareness of breast cancer’s year‑round risk [ She mentions that early detection offers up to a 99% survival rate over five years. 2. Stages and Types of Breast Cancer Matter She distinguishes between early‑stage breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer, which her mother had. Stage 1 = high survival Stage 4 (metastatic) = significantly reduced survival [ Her mother survived more than 10 years after the first diagnosis but did not keep up with mammograms the second time, leading to late detection. [ 3. Personal Loss Became a Mission Rhonda created her nonprofit to honor her mother and provide the support items they wish they had at the time: Mastectomy bras Moisturizing skin care Aluminum‑free deodorant Ginger tea for chemo nausea Motivational items & journals [They have already supported 76 women nationwide. 4. The Pink Box: A Personal, Tailored Care Package Each box is customized based on a woman’s treatment: Bra size Cancer stage Whether they've had a mastectomy Product needs It takes 4–6 weeks to deliver and can be requested online. 5. The Emotional Impact of Breast Cancer is Deep and Often Hidden Rhonda explains that losing breasts can feel like losing part of one's womanhood.Women may struggle with: Body image Confidence Relationship shifts Emotional turmoil [ She confirms that the bra included in the Pink Box is one of the most essential and empowering items. 6. Running a Nonprofit is Real Work—Consistency & Partnership Are Key She warns new founders: Getting a 501(c)(3) is easy; running it isn’t. You must ask for help and build partnerships. Organizations that believe in the mission must be prioritized for long‑term sustainability. 7. Self‑Care Is Essential for Those Who Care for Others She admits the emotional weight of supporting women fighting for their lives.Her coping strategies: Yoga 3–4 times/week Walking and outdoor activities Intentional personal time 8. Golf and Wellness Are Part of Rhonda’s Foundation She learned golf during Covid and now uses it as a personal escape, a wellness practice, and a platform for outreach via golf clinics. 9. Real Awareness Requires Year‑Round Outreach Rhonda actively participates in wellness expos, community events, corporate outreach, and social media messaging to keep breast cancer education going beyond October. 🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations) On early detection “Consistency is what increases the survival rate of breast cancer.” “The five‑year survival rate is 99% when detected early.” [On her mother’s cancer journey “She survived over 10 years the first time… the second time, she didn’t schedule her mammogram.” On why year‑round awareness matters “Breast cancer doesn’t wait until October to be diagnosed. Women are diagnosed every day.” On the emotional impact “Losing your breasts is like losing a part of yourself… part of your womanhood.” On creating the Pink Box “These are things I wish we had had when my mom was going through her breast cancer.” On healing through helping “It is very healing… I get joy from helping other women as they go through their healing journey.” On nonprofit management “You have to ask for help… partnerships and sponsorships matter.” On awareness fatigue “People move on to the next holiday or event. Breast cancer has become desensitized.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.