Title
To recognize the 2026 Champions of Hope for their courage in sharing their experiences with breast cancer to increase public awareness and connection in the Columbus community
Body
WHEREAS, the breast cancer journey is not limited to treatment. It can start with routine screenings, or an unexpected diagnosis, and can continue through treatment, healing, survivorship, recurrence, and advocacy; and
WHEREAS, the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer movement brings together survivors, thrivers, caregivers, advocates, families, and community members to raise awareness, celebrate survivorship, honor those impacted by breast cancer, and support the ongoing fight against this disease; and
WHEREAS, the 2026 Columbus Champions of Hope were selected to bring together women with different perspectives and reflect a continuum of experiences that can begin before cancer is diagnosed and extend long after treatment; and
WHEREAS, Debra A. Warino, Buzzy Biddinger, Dalonna McDaniel, Asisa Chiles-Dickerson, Tee Elder, Lawanda Stewart, and Shannon Cromer are the 2026 Champions of Hope. They each represent different parts of the breast cancer journey including early detection, diagnosis and active treatment, entering survivorship, healing beyond treatment, from surviving to thriving, long term survivorship, and turning lived experience into purpose; and
WHEREAS, through their willingness to share their personal stories, the Champions of Hope offer encouragement to individuals and families navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, while promoting the importance of early detection, education, access to care, and community support; and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby recognize and honor Champions of Hope in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, celebrating their strength, resilience, advocacy, and the lasting impact of their voices in Columbus, Ohio.