Founding a nonprofit organization was never on my radar as something I would ever do, but sometimes we don’t really know what life has in store for us. It’s a labor of love, floundering at times, relying on those who have jumped in to help because they have a heart for others is what has brought the idea into reality. Now the Brigade is packing backpacks filled with goodies for those beginning their cancer journey, reviewing scholarship applications for local seniors interested in the medical field and offering copay assistance to those in need at our local oncologist’s office. All in 14 short months. It is amazing what can happen when you let Jesus take the wheel. I am hopeful the foundation will continue to grow as people learn more about our vision and we will be able to impact patients across a wider area so they know they are not alone in their journey. There is an army of people behind them cheering them on, praying for their recovery with love and hope.

Alison is a closing attorney and moved to Santa Rosa Beach from Atlanta in December of 2018. 5 years ago, Alison was diagnosed with breast cancer and experienced first-hand the need for community and local support. It is this experience that gave her a deep appreciation for how the Bailey Brigade is seeking to provide support for cancer patients in our area, one patient at a time.

Christine Tarpey, a Florida native, has built a career in the local beverage industry of 30A over the last 20 years. After decades of working with consumers it was clear to Christine that the need for more creative and adventurous event bars was where she would be able to make a difference. She is now the Owner/Operator of Better Together Beverage, a beverage company in the Santa Rosa Beach area which works towards supporting local non-profits by way of event-based services. Christine’s purpose of business is simple, to be and do “better together”.

I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Melanoma when I was 27 and was lucky enough to not have to go through chemo or radiation and my life continued as normal. I am so grateful that I caught this early and was able to treat it easily. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and graduated from The University of Georgia. I have been living and working in the Destin/South Walton area for over 20 years. Both of my children were raised in the community. I am the COO for BHHS Beach Properties of Florida and have been with the company since 2011. I enjoy being with my family and friends and doing anything outside. Cancer affects so many people. Our health is a blessing and when we don’t have good health it is a game changer. I want to be a part of the Bailey Brigade to help make people's fight with cancer just a tiny bit easier or add a smile during this time. I want to help give them the strength to fight this fight. No one's fight is ever the same, but we are stronger when we fight together.

Jennifer Rhea is currently in her 11th year of teaching Visual Arts at Emerald Coast Middle School, and she was honored to be selected as Walton County’s Teacher of the Year for 2015-2016. Before teaching at public school, she taught Art and Humanities for Northwest Florida State College and the University of West Florida. Mrs. Rhea has served on many educational committees and works with various community arts organizations. Mrs. Rhea was inspired to be a part of the brigade after witnessing the all-consuming toll cancer takes on an entire family-physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially. A family affected by cancer should not carry the weight alone and any selfless acts, big or small, can help lift the spirits of the sick and their caretakers. Our community supported the Baileys throughout their battle, and this is an opportunity to band together and pay it forward.