Dr. Nicole Robinson, founder of Hatz 4 Hearts and a stage four breast cancer survivor, as she commemorates seven years of survival and resilience at the Pink Carpet Community Gala. Discover her inspiring journey and the significance of the number seven in her life.
For Dr. Nicole Robinson, founder of Hatz 4 Hearts and a stage four breast cancer survivor, the number seven carries deep significance. This year marks not only the seventh annual Pink Carpet Community Gala, but also seven years since her own stage four diagnosis—a milestone she embraces with gratitude and purpose.
“Seven is such a divine number,” Robinson reflected. “For me, it represents survival, resilience, and the blessing of still being here to do this work.”
This year’s theme, “Resilience. Remembrance. Radiance”, shone a light on those who’ve turned adversity into advocacy—whether in hospital rooms, research labs, or the quiet moments of caregiving that rarely make headlines.
The evening featured powerful voices and inspiring moments, including:
- Special Guest Speaker: International jazz icon and humanitarian Denise Thimes
- Host: 2x Emmy & Edward R. Murrow Award–winning journalist Derrion Henderson
- 2025 Honorees:
- Keisha Lee – Anne Malone
- Valeda Keys – Valeda’s Hope
- Dr. Atif Shafqat – Missouri Baptist
- Tracy Finney – Survivor
- Courtney Stoler – Survivor
- Keisha Lee – Anne Malone
As guests arrived, they were welcomed into a space that radiated with love, warmth and anticipation. The room bloomed with lush pink florals and elegantly appointed tables, creating an atmosphere both intimate and grand. Setting the tone for the evening, soul violinist Bell Darris greeted attendees with melodies that seemed to wrap the room in grace.
The evening unfolded as a celebration of resilience and beauty featuring inspirational words from the incomparable Denise Thimes, moving tributes to honorees and a fashion show where fierce model-survivors blazed the catwalk with confidence and strength. Echoing the elegance of the evening, DJ Stew of 100.3 The Beat reinforced the vibe that carried the crowd seamlessly from inspiration to celebration—making the gala not only memorable, but truly unforgettable.
A Mission Born from Experience
Robinson launched Hatz 4 Hearts as both a ministry and a mission, inspired by her own cancer journey. The organization offers practical and emotional support to individuals and families affected by breast cancer.
The organization’s initiatives include providing $500 patient care grants to help with urgent expenses, donating hats and headwear to support patients undergoing chemotherapy and advancing breast health awareness through community programs—such as the free mammogram event held the day after the Gala at the Bellefontaine Community Center.
“The financial burden of cancer is often invisible to those on the outside,” Robinson explained. “Even a modest grant can bring someone to tears because it meets an urgent need in that moment. That’s the impact—and the reason this work is so necessary.”
When asked how she balances the roles of survivor, philanthropist and founder, Robinson smiled. “It’s truly a gift from God—it keeps me going. This is my ministry, helping others gives me purpose and reminds me to focus less on myself and more on how I can infuse hope into others.”
For many, meeting Dr. Robinson is itself a source of encouragement. “When people learned I was stage four, they’re surprised because I don’t ‘look’ like it. That moment of surprise often turns into hope. If I can keep going, maybe they can, too.”
While the Pink Carpet Gala celebrates survivorship, community and awareness, Robinson envisions growth for Hatz 4 Hearts. Her goal is to secure more funding to expand patient grants, providing even greater support for those struggling financially during treatment.
“One woman burst into tears when I told her she’d be receiving a $500 grant,” Robinson recalled. “To me, it seemed small—but to her, it meant everything. That moment reminded me that every act of giving matters.”
How to Connect with Hatz 4 Hearts
For those interested in supporting or connecting with Hatz 4 Hearts, Robinson encourages the community to visit:
www.hatz4hearts.org
Social Media: @Hatz4Hearts (all socials)
As Robinson welcomed guests at this year’s Pink Carpet Gala, her joy was palpable. More than a celebration, the evening served as a reminder of survival, community strength and the power of giving back.
Dr. Nicole Robinson proves that hope is contagious—and through Hatz 4 Hearts, she’s making sure it never runs out.
Dr. Nicole Robinson, Hatz 4 Hearts, breast cancer survivor, stage four breast cancer, Pink Carpet Community Gala, cancer resilience, cancer advocacy, survivor stories, cancer support, resilience and remembrance, cancer awareness campaign, caregiving, inspirational cancer stories
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