The Karen Collins “Un-Teal” There is a Cure foundation was established in 2012 to promote ovarian cancer awareness and raise money for life-saving research. The foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and all donations are tax-deductible. All proceeds are donated directly to non-profit and research organizations working with cancer patients.
Our organization has a close relationship with Dr. Matthew Block at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. Dr. Block is actively researching ways to improve the immune response to cancer. A summary of his research and focus can be found by visiting the Mayo Clinic website.
Each year the organization hosts a sporting clays tournament (May), a golf tournament (September) and a Casino Night among other events. For more information about these events please visit the event pages.
Since 2012, our organization has donated over $1,074,000 to life-saving research programs! We are so thankful to our wonderful sponsors, golfers, shooters and volunteers that make these events such a great success.
Without your support, we would not be able to support these research efforts.
Board Members
Karen Collins “Un-Teal” There is a Cure Board of Directors
The “Un-Teal” board is comprised of dedicated individuals working together to raise money for ovarian cancer reserach.
Pictured from L to R: Mike Collins, Jennifer Palmer, Bobby Hilliard, Carrie Brisendine, Starla Melkersen, Kristen Stone, and Wanda Detwiler
Karen Collins and Mike Collins
Founder/President
Karen and Mike founded Un-Teal in 2011 after Karen was diagnosed with Stage 3C ovarian cancer. Until her passing in February 2016, Karen served as Un-Teal’s president, working to help others and while supporting cancer research.
Mike carries on Karen’s legacy and passion to find a cure. He makes the key decisions for the charity with the mission of hope with research in mind. He continues to drive awareness and funding to end ovarian cancer for good.
Jennifer Palmer
President
Jennifer is the research liaison for Un-Teal. She has extensive experience in coordinating non-clinical and clinical drug trials for cancer treatments, including those for ovarian cancer. She directs donations from Un-Teal to facilities that can best use the funds.
Starla Melkersen
Vice President
Starla joined the “Un-Teal” board in 2021 after years of volunteering with the organization. She is an ovarian cancer survivor who was first diagnosed at the age of 23 in 2017.
Kristen Stone
Board Member
Kristen has worked with the Un-Teal board since its inception. She coordinates marketing efforts and event planning for the organization. She’s incredibly passionate and continues to honor Karen’s memory through her work.
Carrie Brisendine
Board Member
Carrie, pictured here with her cousin, joined the “Un-Teal” board in 2019. She is a wonderful asset in event planning and day of coordination. Carrie is also a strong adovate for “Un-Teal” in the community!
Wanda Detwiler
Board Member
Wanda joined the “Un-Teal” board in 2019 after volunteering for several years. Wanda lost her mother to ovarian cancer and is passionate about raising awareness for this disease!
Bobby Hilliard
Board Member
Bobby has been a dedicated advocate for Un-Teal for 10 years and joined the board in 2025.
