Happy Thanksgiving!

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them!" -John F. Kennedy

This is one of my favorite quotes because it highlights one concept that I try to live my life by, make a difference, inspire, show thanks, and grow through your actions. As Miss Black Texas USA it is something that I plan to implement into my reign by reaching out to my community and by lending my time, talents, and resources to people in need. This Thanksgiving I am thankful for a devoting family, generous friends, my title, an amazing pageant staff, and opportunities that many could only dream of. I hope to change lives and I truly believe that through being a dignitary I will be one step closer to being able to do just that.

This morning I spent my time with someone that I have not seen since my crowning, my  sister queen, Chandler Foreman. We had the opportunity to take part in one of Texas' largest events, the HEB Holiday Parade. Being able to catch up with her, and my assistant director JC Goode was the highlight of my day. But of course the best part was being able to be a "queen" for the day in the eyes of many. I met Clutch from the Houston Rockets and saw many old friends. I will close this day with what matters most to me, my family and encourage you all to do the same! Please stay tuned because this is only the beginning of my journey!

Respectfully,
Dymond Elise

Breast Cancer Month Has Ended

Yesterday was the last day of Breast Cancer Awareness month and I want to leave my sisters with one important statistic:

 

  -African American women are 10% less likely to have been diagnosed with breast cancer, but almost 40% are more likely to die from it.

 

 

Why? Poorer women live farther from mammography services, race and weight impact breast cancer survival, black patients receive less clinical trial information than white patients. The key to reversing these trends are “ Education and Early Detection”. October has ended, but our fight to end breast cancer forever continues!

 

Stay Alert!

With Love,

Dymond Elise

Good Morning Texas!

This past Monday I was given the opportunity of a lifetime! I took a break from my studies and flew into Dallas to be on Good Morning Texas. My interview followed the world renowned Regis Philbin from Regis and Kelly. To even be placed on the same show as him was an honor. Throughout my segment I was able to talk about my personal platform, discuss the Miss Black USA Organization, as well as outline my plans for my reign as Miss Black Texas USA.

When I walked into the studio I must say that I did not know what to expect. The best words to describe my feelings were bone shaking nervous. This was my first interview as Miss Black Texas and I wanted to nail it and really make everyone proud. I sat down in the chair, said a prayer and asked God to allow me show them who Dymond was. Thanks to his grace and much preparation I was able to shine. I must say that I walked away from that moment with a sense of accomplishment. If you would like to view the interview the web link can be found below:

http://www.wfaa.com/good-morning-texas/Meet-Miss-Black-Texas-USA--174189001.html

Yesterday was also a very special day for me. My platform of breast cancer awareness also focuses on the need to increase early detection. Yesterday was National Mammogram Day! I have the flu so I was unable to promote my mobile mammogram program. However, I mobilized from home! I spent the day calling and sending out emails to spread the word because it was a day that could be used as a powerful reminder. A reminder to schedule an appointment, if you have not already done so!

In the next couple of months I have a lot of things planned and encourage everyone to stay tuned!

So Until Next Time,

With Love,

Dymond Elise

Miss Black Texas USA

Start the Fight by Eating Right!

There's a glowing body of research that suggest maintaining a healthy weight, eating a proper diet, and exercise can help reduce the risk of breast cancer; so please start today learning how lifestyle changes can reduce your risk and please find out how you can support the cause in your own community.
I just completed another "Race for the Cure" in my home city this month and can't wait until the upcoming one in Dallas, TX.

With Love,
Dymond Elise
Miss Black Texas USA

It's Breast Cancer Month

"When a women is faced with breast cancer and has to deal with the physical and emotional changes it brings, she must remember that no matter what those changes are, she is still beautiful inside and out, and that her heart, spirit, and faith will help her to fight and overcome the disease."

Today is the first day of breast cancer awareness month and you can help by telling cancer survivors and those currently battling the disease, "They are Loved". As the daughter of a survivor and granddaughter who lost grandparents to this devastating disease I believe wholeheartedly, "Love works. It helped my mom beat cancer.

Hugs,
Dymond Elise Hayes
Miss Black Texas USA