Christine K. Norton

Co-Founder, Minnesota Breast Cancer Coalition

Christine Norton was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 1990 at age 44. Her impressive career in breast cancer advocacy began in July 1991 when she served as Minnesota state captain for the National Breast Cancer Coalition_s Do The Write Thing Letterwriting Campaign, which sought increased funding for breast cancer research. The success of this grass roots effort spurred Chris Norton and Cher Johnson to found the Minnesota Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) in October 1991. In addition to serving as president of the MBCC, Chris is also on the Board of Directors of the National Breast Cancer Coalition and serves as Minnesota_s Lead Field Coordinator for NBCC. Chris has served on the steering committee for the Komen Race for the Cure/Twin Cities since its inception in 1993, as well as on numerous American Cancer Society and Minnesota Department of Health committees. She has been a peer reviewer for breast cancer grants for the Department of Defense, Avon, and the University of Minnesota.

Chris Norton is a passionate, positive, persevering woman-a believer. She uses knowledge as power and shares it generously with anyone willing to listen and learn. She stands up everyday informing people, asking hard questions, challenging conventions, finding ways around barriers and affecting legislative decisions that determine insurance coverage of breast cancer tests and treatments. Chris Norton is engaged in life fully. The overwhelming is not too hard. It is merely her next goal. We are indeed fortunate to have Chris Norton as a leader and advocate for all Minnesota women, men and children.

In her non-volunteer life, Chris teaches English at Park High School in Cottage Grove. She and her husband have three adult children and one grandchild.

"Everything I do is for my daughter, Kathleen, and the young women I teach. I hope in their lifetimes we will know what causes breast cancer, and therefore how to prevent this disease, which affects so many families. There are many legacies I want to pass on to my daughter, but breast cancer is not one of them."

The Breast Cancer Awareness Association Award was created to honor and celebrate the work of individuals in the fight against breast cancer. The award is given annually to individuals whose work in the field of breast disease and related health issues has made an outstanding positive impact in the community.