Kim Twine is the director of the Pink Ribbon Resource Center, Inc. in Moyock, NC.
We are an accredited, nonprofit organization providing post-mastectomy bras, breast prostheses, compression garments for lymphedema, and wigs. We also offer support through our Bosom Buddies Support Group and Breastie Bags for new survivors. We’re excited to announce we are expanding and will soon open Nola’s, a new upscale resale shop.
My mother is a 31-year breast cancer survivor. I’ve seen up close her struggle at times to find products from an accredited shop.
I volunteered in a mastectomy shop when I lived in Florida thinking it would be a “nice thing to do.” I soon found myself wanting to shift careers because it was so rewarding, being able to bring a sense of normalcy to the women that were helped. I found this is definitely my calling.
I chose Currituck because I live here. I found there really isn’t a shop like Pink Ribbon Resource Center here or anywhere in the surrounding four counties. And sadly, there will still be, on average, about 150 new breast cancer cases each year just in these counties.
I never even considered other areas. So many people travel up through Currituck County and Moyock to access healthcare in Virginia. And people from Virginia come to or through Moyock. So it just seemed like the perfect, growing place to do business.
The biggest challenge for any business right now definitely has to be COVID-19. From decreases in business to increases in the cost to do business. It’s tough. And being a new business is difficult enough!
Despite all the struggles, the greatest reward for me will always be the smiles, the hugs, and sometimes even the tears of joy when a woman sees herself once again as beautiful and restored.
There are a few things that really make PRRC special. First of all, we are here! Next, you will find us in a discreet location. That can be very important for many of these women. And finally, when you enter the shop, it’s very important to me that women feel welcomed, safe and comfortable knowing they are working with someone who is very passionate about helping them.
Do it! If you are looking for a business location, Currituck County is great. The county welcomes new business, is business friendly with little to no county fees, and is eager to help get you going.