Carolyn Tigner was born and raised in Columbus, Ga to a family of 4 siblings with the addition of a bonus brother, all of whom she considers close family. She attended Carver High School until the school systems integrated; which led to Carolyn graduating from Jordan High School. Carolyn has two amazing children and a total of 3 grandchildren, all of whom she adores.
Carolyn retired from Aflac Inc. after thirty-two (32) wonderful years of service and currently attends Greater Peace Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Corey Neal. On February 11, 2021, Carolyn was diagnosed with Stage 1 Breast Cancer; news that no one would want to receive. Carolyn decided Breast Cancer would not win and was determined to put up her best fight. Carolyn finished her last Radiation treatment at the end of November 2021. While overcoming Breast Cancer was challenging enough, Carolyn continues to “Thrive”!
How long have you been involved with WCGCC?
“I became involved with WCGCC in 2006. At the time, The Senior Vice President of Aflac Inc., was retiring and she asked if I would be willing to replace her on the Board of WCGCC. I willingly agreed and I learned of WCGCC community involvement and contribution. I knew then that WCGCC was an organization I’d love to be a part of. Moving forward, I became committed to helping WCGCC however I could.”
Why did you get involved with WCGCC and what is your role?
“I got involved with WCGCC because I saw the potential impact the organization could have on the community. A lot of people were unfamiliar with WCGCC but when we began “Paint the Town Pink (PTTP)” people learned of the resources WCGCC were able to offer in our community. After that people became more aware of WCGCC and were willing to volunteer to give back in the community. That really spoke to the notoriety of the work that WCGCC was and is currently still doing.“
“I would say my role at WCGCC is to assist wherever I’m needed.
Special Interest: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
“Traveling! I love to travel in our RV and we’re actually apart of an RV Club. We “take off” and travel as much as we can! Most recently we were able to visit Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico to name a few! We also planned this year to visit Rome, Greece, and Turkey.”
How would you best describe the WCGCC?
“We are a group of people who love to help people. Our goal is to take the stress and strain of going through a devastating disease off of the family and the people who are going through cancer treatment. We want to extend a little sense of relief during the most devastating time in their lives. From personal experience, when you hear the word cancer, that is one of the most devastating words you can ever hear in your life. The next moment you think “What am I going to do?” The fact that I knew I could rely on WCGCC and the people who supported the organization, provided a small sense of relief. “
Is there anything you’d like to share with other “Thrivers” or people who may be currently battling Cancer?
“I’d like to tell anyone battling Cancer, to be an advocate for their own health. I would advise them to ask questions and to be prepared with a pencil and paper when visiting the doctor. If they are unsure of questions to ask, I would advise them to reach out to other “Thrivers”. Don’t be afraid to ask doctors what exams you want and what you feel you may need. I also advise against waiting for treatment. If there is something that needs to be addressed concerning my health, I would look into it the first moment I get; at the least to give me a peace of mind.”