When it came time to celebrate Dr. Theresa Graves’ retirement, there was no better setting than the water. Known as an avid paddler and a pioneering breast cancer surgeon, Dr. Graves chose to say goodbye to her colleagues, patients, and friends during the annual Paddle for Progress Rhode Island—a fitting tribute that mirrored her energy, compassion, and commitment to life’s forward momentum.
Her Brown Surgical Associates colleagues turned out in force for the event, which was founded by Deb Shapiro and her daughter, Daryl, who are both patients of Dr. Graves. The mother-daughter duo both survived breast cancer after being diagnosed within 100 days of each other and launched the event to help highlight the comprehensive breast care available right here in Rhode Island.
Watch the video below for a recap of this inspiring day. If you’d like to help pay tribute to Dr. Grave’s career while also supporting breast cancer research and care in Rhode Island, we invite you to donate to Paddle for Progress Rhode Island. DONATE TODAY »
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A Career of Compassion and Innovation
For more than 30 years, Dr. Graves dedicated her life to improving breast cancer care in Rhode Island. She founded the state’s first breast clinic, which has since evolved into the world-class Brown University Health Breast Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic. Her leadership, skill, and advocacy shaped the way breast cancer patients are treated today, ensuring that care is both comprehensive and compassionate.
“She’s one of the most important figures in breast cancer care in our state,” said Dr. Christine Emmick, a breast surgeon at Brown Surgical Associates. “She takes care of patients the right way. She fosters teamwork and communication. We hope to continue her legacy and make the program even stronger.”
Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Women in Medicine
Dr. Graves’ impact wasn’t limited to patients. As one of the first female attending surgeons in her program, she became a role model for countless women in medicine. “You were the first. You inspired us. You broke down barriers that have meant so much to me and all the other female residents,” Dr. Emmick said.
Her pioneering spirit helped open doors for women pursuing surgical careers, and her mentorship created a ripple effect of empowerment across Rhode Island’s medical community.
A Celebration of Heart and Humanity
At the Paddle for Progress, laughter and tears flowed as freely as the water. Patients, families, and staff gathered to honor not only a physician but a friend. Many spoke about how Dr. Graves made them feel seen, heard, and cared for during their most difficult journeys.
“Her influence extended far beyond the operating room—she fostered teamwork, communication, and innovation that continues to guide the next generation of providers,” said Brown Surgical Associates breast surgeon, Dr. Charu Taneja.
The Next Chapter: Still Paddling Forward
Although she’s hanging up her white coat, Dr. Graves’ passion for life—and kayaking—shows no signs of slowing down. “As I always tell my patients,” she said, “I have no friends—I have my patients who are my friends, and we will kayak together for as long as we know each other.”
Even in retirement, she plans to stay connected through the Paddle for Progress, continuing to give back and inspire others with the same determination that defined her career.
Small but Mighty
Rhode Island is known as a small but mighty state—a description Dr. Stephanie Graff said perfectly fits Dr. Theresa Graves. Her legacy is one of strength, resilience, and unwavering compassion. She leaves behind a thriving program, a community of grateful patients, and a generation of physicians inspired to follow her lead.
As Dr. Graff put it: “Thank you for everything you’ve done to help launch world-class care in this state. We’ll miss you, but we’ll keep paddling forward in your honor.”
