The Virginian-Pilot
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The fourth annual Bra-ha-ha kicked off Friday with its red-carpet Awards Show and Auction at the Chesapeake Conference Center. Winners in eight categories were announced from a record 310 entries. More than 600 people attended the ceremony in which first lady Maureen McDonnell and U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes were among the presenters. More than $145,000 was raised - the most since Bra-ha-ha's inception in 2008.
Bra-ha-ha is the principal fundraiser for Chesapeake Medical Center's initiative to provide health services for underserved patients at its Breast Center. An exhibit of all the bras will be on display through Oct. 15 at MacArthur Center in Norfolk, and there are other retailer-sponsored events throughout the month that will support Bra-ha-ha. For more information on the events, visit www.brahaha.org.
Click on a photo to see it larger, or click here to view an automated slideshow. Photos courtesy of Chesapeake Regional Medical Center.
1st place
Kelly Andrews, “These Are Not The Windows To My Soul”
Concept: I am a woman who has been looked and spoken to at her breast more than once. I have a friend who had a double mastectomy. I am also an amputee, who is inspired by those that fight. Spirit inspires me.
2nd place
Sue Perna of Wakefield, “Rooftop Revelry”
Concept: When the lump in your breast is all but a memory, a rooftop YAHOO! is just part of the revelry.
3rd place
Servpro of Kempsville/Military Circle, “Whirley Shirley”
Concept: Our bra is inspired by Shirley Erwin, in whose memory we are creating it for. She recently passed away from cancer. She loved things that were “different,” so in memory of her we are creating a bra that is certainly different.
Honorable Mention
Chesapeake Office of Youth Services by Mary Riley, “Dodged a Bullet”
Concept: To illustrate that early prevention and regular screenings help women to “dodge a bullet” when it comes to breast cancer.
Most Humorous
CK’s BFFs, “Put Your Big Girl Panties On And ‘Deal With It’ ”
Concept: CK can’t even get a shot without her husband holding her hand! We knew it was going to be a difficult journey when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She loves the casino so we all told her to “Put Her Big Girl Panties On and Deal with It!
Most Creative
Potts N Paints by Tammie Taylor and Lynnie Plata, “Creating Possibilities”
Concept: Inspiration, faith, strength. These all come from within. The fight to survive to carry on is a special trait. There are many ways to fight and art is a great one. Creativity creates possibilities. Everyone’s an artist and art is self-therapeutic. Find your artful, fun, relaxing outlet. Create today!
Most Inspirational
Bon Secours Home Care, “Garden of Hope”
Concept: Bon Secours Home Care and Hospice designed the “Garden of Hope” bra as a tribute to those brave women who are our family, friends, co-workers and patients battled breast cancer. Their pictures and names are the most beautiful part of this creation.
Best Craftsmanship
Susie Waters, “Baskets of Hope”
Concept: I am a basket weaver and wanted to incorporate my love of weaving into something that would help all that I have known with breast cancer and help with someday finding a cure.
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