L to R: Mayor McBrayer, Shay McNamee and Don Segars View more pictures

September is National Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month. In accordance with the need to raise awareness to these types of cancer, their impact on Alabama, the need for research and improved screening tests, and support for women battling these diseases, a major initiative was established to encourage cities and businesses across the state to participate in "A State of Teal." 

The CanSurvive GYN Cancer Support Group, the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation, and  the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation are excited to announce their collaboration by launching this awareness campaign for gynecologic cancers.  These include ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.  This is the fourth year since this effort was first established and it is making an impact across our state.

In observance of A State of Teal, the Honorable Scott McBrayer, Mayor of Homewood, issued a proclamation declaring September as Ovarian/GYN Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Homewood. Present to accept the proclamation was Shay McNamee, Homewood resident and ovarian cancer survivor along with Don Segers, Homewood resident who lost his wife, Bonnie, to ovarian cancer in 2011. Shay actually created the design for the 2015 A State of Teal official t-shirt. Many family members of those affected by these diseases were present in support of this occasion.

In addition to issuing the proclamation, the city will apply teal lighting to prominent areas around the city including City Hall, the community center, and Ridout's Valley Chapel will also be lit in teal.