10/12/2026
🩷 Tell Me Her Name — Julie & Gloria 🩷
Today, Tell Me Her Name looks a little different… because when Jen sent me her nominations, she gave me two names.
Julie Ritz & Gloria Brockway.
Two women. Two stories. And today, two little ribbons made especially in their honor.
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🎀 Gloria
My Grandma Gloria Brockway was simply the best.
She was a two-time breast cancer survivor—and if there was ever a woman who embodied F**K CANCER, it was her. She was strong, fierce, and unforgettable.
Her memory still lives on in so many ways, including through my daughter, who carries Gloria as her middle name. I couldn’t be more proud to have passed her name down.
And then there was her tea… it was the absolute best. It’s one of those little things that will forever make me think of her.
Some people leave behind memories. Some leave behind a legacy.
Grandma Gloria did both.
Forever loved. Forever remembered.
Two-time survivor. Forever a fighter. F**k cancer.
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🎀 Julie
At just 32 years old, with a 4-year-old little boy at home, her life changed when she discovered a lump in her right breast.
After testing, she was diagnosed with Stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma.
What followed was chemotherapy, a mastectomy, and reconstruction. She faced it all with determination, humor, and a little glass-half-full thinking. Even joking that she might as well get a tummy tuck out of the whole ordeal!
Through it all, one moment has stayed with her.
While shopping at Target with a stocking cap covering her bald head, a woman approached her, gently touched her arm, lifted her own hat to reveal her bald head, and gave her a wink.
No words were needed. Just a simple moment of understanding between two women fighting the same battle.
19 years later, she is still here and cancer-free! ❤️
She says there's a definite line between life before cancer and life after. Today, she appreciates the little things a little more. A beautiful sky, laughing until she cries, and showing compassion to those going through difficult times.
19 years later, that stranger's simple act of kindness remains one of her most beautiful memories. 🎀
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Jen, thank you for sharing two women who mean so much to you with me.
These ribbons are for Julie & Gloria. 🩷
And their ribbon pops are my gift to you, in their honor.
Do you have someone you'd like me to honor this October?
Tell me her name. 🩷
