Dana Taylor: Embracing Self-Care and Empowerment Through Prime Pageants

For Dana Taylor, choosing to compete in Prime Pageants was a decision that aligned with her values and aspirations. “I loved the idea of a pageant system that was unlike other systems,” Dana shares. “Building a solid foundation of sisterhood prior to competing is something that I feel is so important. Empowered women, empower women.” The emphasis on self-care was what truly set Prime apart for her. “A system that encourages contestants to take care of themselves first proves that contestants are more than just a number on the stage. Prime has allowed me to take a closer look at aspects of my life that I can improve, not only for me, but for my family too.”

“A system that encourages contestants to take care of themselves first proves that contestants are more than just a number on the stage. Prime has allowed me to take a closer look at aspects of my life that I can improve, not only for me, but for my family too.”

Life as a ‘Chaos Coordinator’

Dana proudly describes herself as the “Chaos Coordinator” of the Taylor family of five. Married to her biggest cheerleader, Shay, they have three wonderful children—Zayden (13) and twin girls, Stella and Pyper (8). Together, they navigate the whirlwind of extracurricular activities and a busy family life, especially with Shay’s demanding job in the natural gas industry, which often keeps him out of town. Despite these challenges, Dana finds joy and purpose in the everyday moments.

“His work is so important,” she explains. “It helps create a multitude of things, including the medications I take to keep me alive.” As a “Lupus Warrior,” Dana not only battles the disease but also advocates passionately for awareness and research. She has successfully obtained proclamations for Lupus Awareness Month from West Virginia’s governor for two consecutive years and has spoken to Congress about the need for more research and affordable treatments.

Dana’s resilience extends beyond her advocacy work. With a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, she emphasizes the importance of mental health, especially when facing life-changing medical conditions. Her life on their rescue farm, caring for animals and coordinating the daily chaos, is a testament to her ability to balance love, advocacy, and self-care.

The Prime Experience: Pride in Self and State

When asked about her favorite part of being a Prime state queen, Dana expresses her pride and gratitude. “It’s a two-part answer. I feel so honored every time I see ‘West Virginia’ on my sash. I have so much pride for my state.” She also cherishes the sisterhood that Prime provides. “Having a strong support system in my sister queens is incredible. We are on this journey together, and we are truly a family. That type of sisterhood is indescribable.”

The Power of Self-Care Challenges

Self-care is central to Dana’s journey with Prime, and the system’s Self Care Challenges have made a significant impact. “I can’t pour from an empty cup,” she reflects. “The challenges have forced me to look at things differently and become a better version of myself. I have learned invaluable lessons from the other queens on things I can do differently.”

“Tending to my body’s needs is hard for me. Lupus makes everything incredibly difficult, and I have a hard time admitting I can’t do it all. That causes me to struggle with my mental health and emotions.”

Yet, for Dana, the struggle with self-care is real, especially with the physical toll of Lupus. “Tending to my body’s needs is hard for me. Lupus makes everything incredibly difficult, and I have a hard time admitting I can’t do it all. That causes me to struggle with my mental health and emotions.” Despite these challenges, Dana remains determined to push herself and reach her goals, all while inspiring others to do the same.

A Glimpse into Dana’s Self-Care Routine

Dana has learned to prioritize various forms of self-care to stay balanced, even amidst the chaos:

Mental Self-Care: “I love reading new books and different research articles. I’ve recently discovered word searches, and those small brain breaks help me regroup.”
Emotional Self-Care: “Sitting in the pasture with my horses brings me peace. There’s so much empirical research surrounding the therapeutic benefits of horses and mental health. I am at pure happiness when I am around my horses.”
Physical Self-Care: “Random dance parties with my twins are my favorite. We crank up the music, sing, dance, and laugh uncontrollably. They laugh at my terrible dancing, but I soak up every second of the memories.”
Practical Self-Care: “I love organizing and decluttering. I feel so happy when the space around me is organized. Keeping a detailed family planner helps manage our busy lives.”
Spiritual Self-Care: “I find solace in praying and reading my Bible. My journaling Bible keeps me focused on my spiritual walk with Jesus.”
Environmental Self-Care: “I enjoy lighting candles, keeping fresh flowers on the counter, and opening windows to let in fresh air. Spraying lavender on my pillows helps me relax before bed.”

Advocacy and Platform Work: Making Lupus Visible

Dana’s passion for raising awareness about lupus extends beyond her personal journey. Her platform work focuses on educating others about systemic lupus erythematosus, a disease that she lives with daily. “I advocate immensely for more awareness of a disease that is essentially killing me. There’s no cure, so I participate in RAY (Research Accelerated by You), which focuses on treatments and advances in possible cures.”

She has secured proclamations for Lupus Awareness Month not only at the state level but also in her hometown of Ripley, WV. Working closely with The Lupus Foundation of America, Dana is committed to building a stronger presence for lupus patients in West Virginia. She is preparing to organize the first lupus walk/run in the state, aiming to create a supportive community for those affected.

In 2024, Dana participated in the “But You Don’t Look Sick: Make Lupus Visible” campaign, where she bravely shared her story through a vulnerable photoshoot. She continues to be a powerful voice for lupus warriors, advocating for a future where those diagnosed receive the support and care they need.

Words of Wisdom and Hope

When asked for her best advice for women, Dana’s response is filled with hope and authenticity. “Please know that every day you get up, put two feet on the floor, and see the sunshine, is a beautiful gift. Don’t strive for perfection; there is no such thing. Strive to be better than you were yesterday.”

Looking Forward: Dreams of a Better Future

Dana’s goal is simple yet profound: to help women facing life with chronic illness find their strength and voice again. “We often lose ourselves when facing these battles. I want to help women reclaim their confidence and sense of self.”

“We often lose ourselves when facing these battles. I want to help women reclaim their confidence and sense of self.”

Her advocacy and self-care journey, intertwined with her work through Prime Pageants, continues to inspire and uplift those around her. With determination and a heart full of hope, Dana Taylor is on a mission to empower others—one step at a time.