Since 1996, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Libby Gatewood has been a powerful force in helping others brave the disease. In addition to founding the local chapter of VBCF, she’s a popular speaker and support-group facilitator, teaching women how to safely use make-up to cover treatment-related changes in appearance—though she often was bald in public during her own chemotherapy treatment. In order to share her knowledge, Gatewood co-wrote the book SOAR: Strength, Optimism And Recovery and organized funds to distribute the book to newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients at no cost. Gatewood also introduced a bill to the Virginia General Assembly for the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation Pink Ribbon License Plate, the proceeds of which support breast cancer awareness programs throughout the state.
