ChristianaCare names breast center after Tatiana Copeland

ChristianaCare has named its Breast Center after philanthropist Tatiana Copeland, who was treated for cancer there

ChristianaCare has named its Breast Center The Tatiana Copeland Breast Center after a Wilmington philanthropist who was treated for cancer there.

The naming of the center at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute reflects Tatiana and Gerret Copeland’s financial support, the healthcare system said in a press release.

The couple gave a $1.2 million gift to the Graham Cancer Center in 2019 for breast cancer prevention and research for underrepresented women.

Tatiana Copeland previously had given $800,000 to fund the purchase of two 3D mammography units.

As a result of their philanthropic leadership, the Graham Cancer Center was one of the first facilities in the nation to offer 3D mammography, the press release said.

“ChristianaCare is deeply grateful to the Copelands for their generous support of the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute,” said  ChristianaCare CEO Janice Nevin. “They have made a tremendous difference in the lives of so many women in and around Delaware.”

ChristianaCare has named its breast center after philanthropist Tatiana Copeland, second from left. Also pictured are, from left, Dr. Nicholas J. Petrelli, ChristianaCare CEO Janice Nevin and Gerret Copeland.

“As longtime Graham Cancer Center supporters and as a breast cancer survivor myself who received wonderful treatment here, we are confident our investment in the Breast Center will continue to enable women to receive the same care that I did,” Tatiana Copeland said in the press release.

“The Copelands share our commitment to providing our patients with the very best breast care, diagnosis and treatment,” said Dr. Nicholas J. Petrelli, medical director of the Graham Center. “Their generous gifts have enabled women from Delaware and surrounding communities to receive expert, compassionate care right here at the Breast Center without ever having to leave the state.”

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Tatiana Copeland called the breast center’s atmosphere was comforting and nurturing.

“Everybody is very caring and attentive,” she said. “Dr. Petrelli has created a team effort that is truly admirable. We hope our support inspires others to join us in the fight against cancer.”

At The Tatiana Copeland Breast Center, patients are supported by an exceptional care team that includes radiologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, genetic counselors and support staff.

In a private event celebrating the naming, Nevin read a letter from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden that was sent to Tatiana — who along with Gerret attended Thursday night’s state dinner for French President Emmanuel Macron — about her support of the Breast Center.

“As a breast cancer survivor, she has taken her pain and turned it into purpose, ensuring that all those who come in for testing at the Breast Center will receive extraordinary care,” President Biden said. “She has put lifesaving and life-altering care within the reach of those who need it most. And through it all, she has pushed for progress, fought for patients and kept hope alive.”

Betsy Price

Betsy Price is a Wilmington freelance writer who has 40 years of experience, including 15 at The News Journal in Delaware.