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American Cancer Society of Chattanooga Distinguished Award

About the award

The ACS Distinguish Award renamed the Dr. Headrick Distinguished award in 2023, in honor of the service and dedication to those in our community facing cancer and contribution towards the innovation and lung cancer research.  The Dr. Headrick distinguished award is a prestigious annual recognition honoring individuals who demonstrate exceptional service within our community advocating for those facing cancer. This award celebrates the spirit of compassion and commitment, highlighting individuals who selflessly advocate for those impacted by cancer, recognizing their exceptional service and unwavering dedication.

Each year, the Dr. Headrick Distinguished Service Award serves as a reminder of the power of community, the importance of service, and the ongoing battle against cancer. It honors those who, like Dr. Headrick, inspire hope and make a difference in the lives of countless individuals facing the challenges of cancer. Through this recognition, we celebrate those who carry forward the legacy of support and dedication that Dr. Headrick has so profoundly embodied.

Dr. Larry Schlabach, 2026 Award Recipient


Dr. Larry Schlabach

Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Tennessee Oncology

Passport to HOPE Award Presentation

Friday, November 20, at the Chattanoogan

Dr. Larry Schlabach is a board-certified medical Oncologist specializing in the treatment of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies with a focus on conditions such as breast cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and metastatic respiratory system cancers. Dr. Schlabach has been making an impact in Chattanooga for over 35 years, serving those facing cancer in our community. Dr. Schlabach, has had hospital privileges at Common Spirit Memorial Hospital, Parkridge Medical Center, Erlanger Baroness Hospital, Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital, Rhea Medical Center and Bradley Medical Center. He is a Medical Oncologist with Tennessee Oncology, and a retired clinical professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health and Science Center’s Chattanooga Campus. The American Cancer Society is proud to honor Dr. Schlabach with the Dr. Headrick Distinguished Award for his unwavering spirit of commitment and compassion while advocating selflessly for those facing cancer in a community.

Becky Hansard 2026 Inspiration Award Honoree


Becky Hansard

Head of School at Silverdale Baptist Academy

Honoring Becky Hansard, Head of School, Silverdale Baptist Academy and cancer survivor

The American Cancer Society is proud to recognize Becky Hansard, Head of School at Silverdale Baptist Academy, as our Inspiration Award Honoree and Recipient.  Becky received her award in March in front of her coworkers, family and friends.

A breast and stomach cancer survivor, Becky embodies the strength, resilience, and hope that define the spirit of this award. Presented with the Inspiration Award in March, Becky was recognized for her unwavering courage, positive outlook, and remarkable ability to encourage and uplift others throughout her cancer journey.

Through every challenge, Becky has led by example, demonstrating extraordinary grace, determination, and faith. Her commitment to inspiring those around her has touched countless lives, serving as a powerful reminder that hope can shine even in the most difficult circumstances.

We are honored to celebrate Becky, her accomplishments, and her inspiring journey at the American Cancer Society’s Gala of Hope: Passport to Hope, where her story continues to encourage and empower our community.

Cole Webster 2025 Dr. Headrick Award Recipient


Cole Webster

President of Barn Nursery and President of Lana's Love

The Dr. Headrick Distinguished Service Award recognizes the remarkable contributions that Cole has made, not only through Lana’s love but also in the broader community. His philanthropic spirit extends beyond his personal mission; he supports various organizations that provide critical resources and assistance to those in need throughout our community.

Cole Webster embodies the essence of compassion, resilience, and dedication to service, making him a deserving recipient of the Dr. Headrick Distinguished Service Award. We look forward to celebrating his work and the profound difference he continues to make in the lives of countless families facing the challenges of cancer.

Join us November 15 as we award Cole Webster with this award for his dedication and generosity to help those in our community facing cancer.

Your support will be instrumental in advancing pediatric cancer research, providing local resources, and ensuring lung screenings for individuals unable to afford the costs not covered by insurance. We encourage you to Join us as we stand together and make a lasting impact in the fight against cancer!