A message from Dr. Theresa Graves
Dear Supporters,
I am immensely grateful for your incredible generosity and enthusiasm for Paddle for Progress RI. Your contributions have made a significant impact on advancing breast cancer research and care in Rhode Island, where every dollar raised supports ongoing research and patient care with local, national, and international implications. Together we continue to celebrate the strength of breast cancer patients, the unwavering support of our community, and the healing power of our state’s natural beauty.
Over the past 40 years of my surgical career, I’ve witnessed remarkable progress in breast cancer treatment and survival. Over the decades, research has significantly improved survival rates and enhanced the quality of life for patients. However, even one life lost to this disease is one too many. Continued research and compassionate care remain as essential as ever.
My surgical career in this beautiful state of Rhode Island has been dedicated to the care of breast cancer patients. For me, there is a critical distinction between curing and healing. It has always been my goal to address both aspects, as curing without healing can leave patients in a void of uncertainty. This commitment drove me to lay the foundations of the Multidisciplinary Clinic (MDC) at Brown University Health Breast Center where the mission has been to create a space that addresses all facets of a patient’s care in a personalized and compassionate manner.
Since the MDC was established in 2014, patients and their families meet with specialists across surgical, medical, and radiation oncology as well as supportive staff of clinical coordinators and nurse navigators, physical therapists, genetic counselors, social workers and research coordinators, to provide personalized, patient-centered care.
During the MDC, each patient’s diagnosis and treatment plan are carefully reviewed by a dedicated tumor board of the outlined team, plus dedicated pathologists and radiologists, ensuring the most comprehensive treatment plan and compassionate care possible is shared with the patient at that initial meeting. This exceptional care is offered through Brown Surgical Associates directing patients to MDC facilities at Rhode Island Hospital, The Miriam Hospital, Newport Hospital, and our East Greenwich Multidisciplinary Center. Our mission has always been to offer precision care statewide, giving every patient access to the best treatment available.
Throughout my career, elevating breast cancer care has been both my professional and personal mission. The personalized and compassionate care delivered by our team is what fosters healing alongside the cure.
Join me once more as we turn Wickford Harbor pink with hundreds of paddlers, united in hope and determination, and celebrate the resilience of our community by raising funds for breast cancer research. The power of our collective community spirit, nature, and the beauty of our Rhode Island waterways cannot be underestimated in its ability to heal. Together we can continue to directly impact the lives of Rhode Island patients and advance programs that provide excellence in care.
As I approach my retirement following Paddle for Progress RI in September 2025, I remain deeply committed to this cause and my passion for this mission and its vital work remains as steadfast as ever.
To my patients, their families, loved ones, and the Rhode Island community: it has been my honor to serve you. I am humbled by your strength and resilience in the fight against breast cancer, and I am forever grateful for the privilege of helping you heal.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Associate Professor of Surgery (Clinical), Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University
Clinical Director, Breast Center, Brown University Health Cancer Center
Director, Center for Breast Care, Brown Surgical Associates, Inc.