Why Teal? A Teal Ribbon brings awareness to Cervical Cancer. Why Zebra Stripes? In medicine, the term “zebra” is used in reference to a rare disease or condition, like Neuroendocrine (NET) Cancers. Why a Giraffe? The spiritual meaning of a giraffe, the placid power animal, is anything but ordinary. Also called ‘Africa’s gentle giant’, the giraffe symbolizes grace, peace, individuality, protection, communication, perception, and farsightedness.