There’s a positive energy that happens when a community comes together not just to raise funds and awareness, but to raise hope. That energy was undeniable this year as Teal Wings of Hope and UAB Gynecologic Oncology deepened a powerful partnership by turning events of speed, style, and sport into an effort for change.
From the engines at GT World Alabama to friendly competition at the Teal Wings of Hope Golf Tournament, and the elegance of the Teal Wings of Hope Gala, this year’s efforts brought people together for something far greater than a single cause. These events raised an astounding $1.2 million that goes directly toward advancing ovarian cancer awareness, research, and treatment through UAB Gynecologic Oncology.
The story of Teal Wings of Hope began with love and loss. Founded in memory of Babs Barrett, the organization was born from her husband Bob Barrett’s promise to make sure no woman would face ovarian cancer without hope, support, or a fighting chance.
“Teal Wings of Hope was founded in memory of my wife, Babs, with the goal of improving ovarian cancer care so that future generations of women won’t have to endure what she did,” Barrett shared. “This partnership with UAB is incredibly meaningful.”
That meaning was on full display this September as UAB Medicine served as the title sponsor for the GT World Alabama event, held at Barber Motorsports Park. With the background of high-performance racing, the event combined adrenaline and advocacy, raising awareness for ovarian cancer. Fans and families joined in, showing that community impact can come from the most unexpected places.
In October, the energy continued when Highland Park Golf Course hosted the 5th Annual Teal Wings of Hope Golf Tournament. There were nine holes of day golf, followed by the nine-hole night event, allowing participants to enjoy competition, camaraderie, and celebration, all for the prevention of ovarian cancer.
Warner Huh, M.D., chair of UAB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, said that he was extremely grateful and excited about the endeavor and that community spirit is what drives the mission forward.
“Our work with the community is what drives us to do what we do,” Huh said. “The most important thing is making sure that we provide access and high-quality care to all individuals in Alabama seeking top-notch gynecologic oncology care.”
Teal Wings of Hope was established by embodying the belief that heartbreak can genuinely lead to healing and hope. This year alone, the presence of teal across fairways and racetracks has upheld this belief and much more. It has also shown that UAB and Teal Wings of Hope are devoted to working together, raising funds to lift spirits, fuel progress, and provide women across Alabama with hope for a cure.