Breast Cancer Network of Strength, formerly Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization presents their first annual “Champions of Strength” award to local breast cancer survivor, Bekki Crippen and surgeon, Dr. Charles Portera Jr.
The award is given to a breast cancer survivor and medical professional who made a significant contribution to the mission of the organization in the past year.
The awards will be given at the annual fashion show for the organization “The Journey Continues” on Sunday.
Ms. Crippen, of Wildwood, Ga., the survivor Champion of Strength, was selected for her support in raising funds for the organization at the Walk to Empower event on Mother’s Day.
She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 at the age of 41. She faced a double mastectomy, chemotherapy and additional preventive surgeries when it was determined that she carries the BRCA genetic mutation which contributed to her cancer.
In addition to the challenge of breast cancer, Ms. Crippen has had cognitive challenges since birth. She didn’t let her that stop her, however, when she decided to raise funds for Breast Cancer Network of Strength for the Walk to Empower last year. She wanted to support the organization that supported her in many ways.
“Bekki has been an inspiration to us because she doesn’t let her challenges keep her from her goals or dreams.” said her mom, Karen Crippen.
Ms. Crippen raised over $4,000 for Network of Strength to help ensure no one faces breast cancer alone.
Dr. Charles Portera Jr., surgical oncologist with Chattanooga Surgical Oncology, has been selected as the Champion of Strength in the medical field for his support of the organization and his patients.
Dr. Portera has served on the board of directors and makes sure that each and every breast cancer patient is referred to Network of Strength so that they can take advantage of the emotional and practical support the services provide.
“The Network of Strength is critical to my practice to insure that my patients are not only well educated in their disease process, but are also fully supported emotionally, physically, and spiritually in their battle with cancer,” said Dr. Portera.
Dr. Portera has been practiced in Chattanooga since 2000. He completed his surgical residency at East TN State University and his surgical oncology fellowship with the University of Texas at MD Anderson Cancer Center.