During one school year, something stood out in my classroom.

Having been an educator for over 20 years, I experienced it first-hand. 

In my 5th grade class, half the young girls began their period journey, except for my daughter Sterling (see us pictured with Kymani on the left, me (Dana) in the middle, and my daughter Sterling on the right).

Those innocent eyes, filled with confusion, uncertainty, and even scare, looked up at me. I could see that all they wanted was someone to understand.

I remember my own journey, those terrifying steps into womanhood. Thinking back to school days, I’d ask my besties for a pad, only to find it way too big and uncomfortable.

It wasn't just about the physical discomfort, but the emotional burden it took on me, wondering if I'd have an embarrassing leak.

That ever-present anxiety, constantly checking for stains, haunted my school days.

The world didn't understand then, and it seems it still doesn’t now. Growing up is hard enough - and I believe every girl deserves to feel supported and understood.

As an educator, I saw more than just pain, I saw an opportunity to empower.

So, I began with a "First Purse" - stitching in a whole lot of love, and packing it with all the must-haves for a tween.

It might have been a simple gesture, but it held deep symbolism. It was a badge of honor, a rite of passage, and a gentle reminder that they weren't on this journey alone.

Monica Williams, a close family friend, and a RedDrop co-founder now, was beginning her motherhood journey with her 1-year-old, Mackenzie. 

I'd share stories about "First Purses" with Monica, who'd often become emotional. At first, the concept seemed distant to her. But as Mackenzie grew, she understood the lack of appropriate period products for tweens wasn't just a simple overlook – it was a real issue.

Monica and I came together with one mission: to make this transitional phase a confident one for tweens.

We didn't want any mother to witness her daughter struggle with products that weren't right for her, affecting both her present comfort and future self-worth.

From the heart-to-heart conversations we've had with both moms and daughters, we've crafted thinner, smaller pads tailored for young girls. These pads not only fit perfectly under their favorite leggings but also ensure comfort, boost confidence, and reinforce self-worth during such a pivotal time.

RedDrop was born from this very vision: An emblem of a mother's love, advocacy, and understanding.