Standing Strong, Together
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time of remembrance, resilience, and renewed commitment to fighting alongside those who carry the weight of this disease. For me, the Tough Kookie Foundation has never been about what I could do alone—it has always been about what we can do together.
I know this journey personally. As a 9-year breast cancer survivor, I have felt the fear, the fight, and the faith it takes to keep moving forward. My story is proof that early detection and community support truly save lives.
Behind my journey is my backbone—my husband, Joe Levingston Jr.—who has stood with me through every idea, every challenge, and every victory. Our daughters, Nakina Janea and Ashanti Danea, continue to inspire me with their love and support, reminding me why this fight matters for every family.
But no foundation stands without its pillars. I am deeply grateful to my board members and committee leaders who dedicate their time, energy, and hearts to making sure our mission thrives. Together, we’ve built something larger than ourselves, and it’s only possible because of their unwavering commitment.
I also want to thank the Texarkana community and surrounding areas. You have believed in me and in this cause, and because of your trust, Tough Kookie continues to grow and touch lives right here at home. We are not looking for a cure—we are taking care of the people who are fighting right now, in our neighborhoods, in our schools, in our churches, in our families.
Breast cancer does not discriminate. While it predominantly affects women, men are also diagnosed each year. That is why I strongly encourage both ladies and gentlemen: take time for your health. Schedule your mammogram. Early detection saves lives.
This month, we are proud to host the 5th Annual Tough Kookie Breast Cancer Race/Walk on October 18, 2025, at Texas A&M University-Texarkana. The race begins at 8:00 AM, but the day will start even earlier with our Survivors/VIP Breakfast catered by Cracker Barrel, with coffee and pastries generously provided by Starbucks.
There’s still time to register at http://www.toughkookie.org. And if you can’t run or walk, you can still make a difference by donating directly on our website. You may choose to support Childhood Cancer or Breast Cancer, but no matter your choice, 100% of the proceeds stay right here in Texarkana and our surrounding communities. Every single dollar is used to care for people.
This October, I’m also excited to highlight our Real Men Wear Pink fundraiser. We are blessed with four incredible leaders who have stepped up to represent strength, compassion, and commitment: Dr. Lloyd Jackson, Dr. Seth Hale, Donnie Reid, and Mayor Bob Bruggeman. Their voices and efforts remind us that this fight is for everyone.
Together, we are Tough Kookie. Together, we carry the fight forward. From a 9-year survivor, my message to you is this: never stop fighting, never stop believing, and never stop caring for one another.
Click here to: Donate today. Register today. Stand with us today.
