The Atlanta Braves Breast Cancer Awareness Day, presented by Publix and skirt! Magazine, was held Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008. The day-long celebration of survivorship honored those who have courageously battled breast cancer, and raised funds to support research, education, advocacy and free services for cancer patients and their families throughout metro Atlanta.

More than 275 survivors along with 600 of their family members and friends enjoyed the day's festivities. We were privileged to have WSB-TV anchors JaQuitta Williams and Monica Pearson help lead our reception and hear from Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz. Proceeds from the Atlanta Braves Breast Cancer Awareness Day will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure Atlanta to help further their grassroots efforts to save and empower lives, ensure quality care for all and continue their support of breast cancer research.

We also extend our congratulations to Janet Beebe, Vickie Lewis, Rose McKeever and Randi Passoff for being named the recipients of the 2008 Diamond of Hope Award. The Diamond of Hope Award honors individuals including breast cancers survivors and community activists that have made exceptional contributions to the fight against breast cancer through volunteer efforts, advocacy, and support of breast cancer education and research. 2008 awards were presented during the pre-game reception.

2008 Diamond of Hope Award recipients stop to pose for a picture with Atlanta Braves pitcher, John Smoltz, and WSB anchor, JaQuitta Williams. From left to right: Janet Beebe , Vickie Lewis, John Smoltz, Randi Passoff, Rose McKeever, JaQuitta Williams

The 2008 Diamond of Hope recipients are:

Janet Beebe- Janet began her own battle with breast cancer at the age of 33, and shortly after her own surgery and treatment she started volunteering with the American Cancer Society, Bosom Buddies of Georgia and several other non-profit organizations. She founded her own non-profit organization, The Breast Cancer Survivor's Network, which facilitates approximately 40 breast cancer support groups.

Vickie Lewis- Vickie is the CEO and founder of the Blessed Breast LLC, a company dedicated to women's breast health, which has been instrumental in achieving higher rates of breast self examination. She hosts "Breast Parties" which create a fun environment for women to discuss serious breast health issues and learn proper techniques for performing exams.

Rose McKeever- Rose has worked with DeKalb Medical for over 30 years and is currently a nurse navigator on the Cancer Support Team. She facilitates two cancer support groups on a weekly basis, one for patients and one for family members of patients. In 1993, she founded the Tree House Gang, metro Atlanta's first support group for children of cancer patients.

Randi Passoff- Randi is the founder and executive director of It's The Journey, Inc., and the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer which has raised more than $4 million and awarded 67 grants to Atlanta breast cancer organizations for programs that range from awareness and education to early detection and support activities. Randi has received numerous honors for her efforts including the 2008 City of Sandy Springs Humanitarian Award and the 2007 Yoplait Breast Cancer Champion.

Please continue to check out our website for information on the 2009 Atlanta Braves Breast Cancer Awareness Day!