This year marked a remarkable milestone for Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP) and for one of our most dedicated supporters, Deb Cole. The 12th annual New England Peaks for Prevention (NEPP) – a fundraising climb for breast cancer prevention – brought together 28 incredible climbers who summited New Hampshire’s iconic Mt. Washington, raising over $100,000 for prevention. That achievement brings NEPP’s cumulative total to more than $1 million raised since its founding, a testament to Deb’s leadership, heart, and vision.
From Survivor to Trailblazer
Deb’s story with BCPP began long before the first NEPP climb. A retired systems analyst, master gardener, and basket weaver, Deb is also a 17-year breast cancer survivor and the proud mom of two daughters. Her journey with prevention began in 2005, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Determined to reclaim her strength, she joined BCPP’s Climb Against the Odds on California’s Mt. Shasta in 2009, an experience that would change her life and inspire a movement.
After summiting the 14,179-foot peak, Deb returned home to New England with a vision: to bring that same empowering, purpose-driven experience to her own community. In 2013, she founded New England Peaks for Prevention, and by 2014 the inaugural climb was underway. What began as a small group of passionate hikers has since grown into a beloved annual tradition, one that has raised vital funds, built deep friendships, and inspired countless others to take action for prevention.
Climbing for the Next Generation
For Deb, prevention isn’t an abstract idea; it’s personal.
“Prevention is important to me because of my daughters, my friends, and my family,” she shares. “I lost my dad to cancer when I was young and more recently a dear friend to breast cancer. I’ve seen how these diseases destroy families, and I know we can do much better in preventing them. The work of BCPP is vital, both in educating the public and changing policy to protect us from toxins lurking in our everyday environment.”
Her belief in BCPP’s mission drives everything she does. “Everyone should support the work of BCPP because we all want a better future for the next generation, one where we can trust the air, the water, and everything we use in our daily lives,” she says. “BCPP not only talks the talk, they walk the walk.”
A Face of Prevention
In recognition of her extraordinary leadership, fundraising, and friendship over the years, Deb was honored in 2022 as one of BCPP’s “30 Faces of Prevention”, celebrating 30 years of impact for the organization. It’s an honor that reflects the deep gratitude and admiration felt across the BCPP community for her tireless commitment.
“Deb is the heart of the New England Peaks for Prevention,” says the BCPP Outdoor Events team. “Her passion and persistence have built a legacy that continues to grow, inspiring others to climb higher. For themselves, for their loved ones, and for a future free of breast cancer.”
From everyone at BCPP, thank you, Deb, for your courage, your leadership, and your unwavering belief in the power of prevention. You’ve helped move mountains and inspired a movement that will continue to climb for years to come. Thank you for climbing for breast cancer prevention.
If Deb’s story inspires you, consider joining the next NEPP or other BCPP event near you!
