On the heels of Mother’s Day, Aura is thrilled to announce the winners of our Do It For the Gram contest! Loved ones across the country nominated their grandmas, shared their most cherished moments, and sent in their inspiring and heartfelt stories. We give a big sincere thanks to all those who shared their stories. Here are our winners:
1st Place: $5,000, 3 Aura Carver frames
Joanne Flowers — nominated by Elijah Yale, grandson
Joanne Flowers is a force to be reckoned with. She now leads a church in Harrison, Ark. but the path there hasn’t been an easy one. Elijah said that it’s his grandmother’s determination and ability to truly make an impact on the world around her that inspires him deeply. Her dynamic personality and wealth of life experiences have made a huge impact not only on her family but on everyone who crosses her path. After being declared legally blind in one eye at a young age and facing many obstacles in school, Mrs. Flowers developed an insatiable desire to succeed. Her commitment to learn about the world propelled her beyond the limitations her school and even her hometown of Louisville, KY. had placed on her. She is an Historically, Black College or University (HBCU) graduate, retired Navy Commander, decorated academic, and most importantly “Grandmommy” to her adoring family.
2nd Place: $2,500 and 3 Aura Carver frames
Albina (Alla) Feygelson — nominated by Masha Feygelson, granddaughter
Albina Feygelson is a true survivor. After living through the German invasion of Russia, growing up in an orphanage, and ultimately studying medicine and becoming a doctor, she makes happiness look effortless. Mrs. Feygelson proves that strength, love, and — perhaps most importantly — hope, come from within.
Muriel Ashby — nominated by Kia Robinson, great niece
Ms. Ashby has never given up on her love of dance. Despite having hip surgery at a very young age, her bubbly, always-on-the go, jokester personality serves as proof that age is just a number. Her willingness to pursue her passion and serve as her niece’s primary guardian with love, support, and compassion is truly inspiring.
3rd Place: 6 Aura Carver frames
Dulce Gierson — nominated by Matthew Gierson, son
Dulce Gierson is a grandmother like no other and is lovingly called “Grammy” by her 18-month-old granddaughter Emma. Despite losing her husband of 39 years to COVID-19 last year, Mrs. Gierson has remained a strong foundation for her family. She loves to run and recently completed her first half-marathon in honor of her late husband.
Hattie Robinson White — nominated by Kethlyn White, daughter-in-law
The name Hattie White is synonymous with the word “family.” Although Ms. White was born the youngest in a large family, she took her place as its heart, always keeping everyone together and connected throughout the years. She put her heart and soul into building an early education school for the children in her community and continues to pour her love into her five grandchildren as the matriarch of the family.
Margarita Ditch — nominated by Diayane Aguirre, granddaughter
Margarita Ditch is living proof that laughter is the best medicine. As a 10-year cancer survivor, she inspires those around her to never give up and always keep a positive attitude. After immigrating to the U.S. from Mexico at a young age in the 1950s, Mrs. Ditch started her own business for wedding dress rentals and alterations, putting her fashionista skills to great use. She is a symbol of courage and resilience, always inspiring others to make the most out of life by doing what you love.
With every entry, we crossed generations, learned about these grandmas’ epic life journeys and how they’ve made a meaningful impact on their families—all while inspiring others and staying absolutely fabulous. Stay tuned for feature stories on each winner!
Thank you to all those who nominated their grandmas! And an extra big thanks to all the grandmas and grandmotherly figures out there who shape our lives and remind us to let yesterday inspire today.