The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) is proud to announce Brianna Mercker as the recipient of the prestigious 2023 Local Hero Award. This annual award was created to honor an individual from the host city of the ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting who has made extraordinary contributions to the field of colon and rectal disease.

Brianna Mercker, a resident of Seattle, has demonstrated remarkable dedication and made significant strides in raising awareness, promoting prevention, and improving treatment options for colon and rectal cancer. Despite her own personal battle with stage IV rectal cancer, Brianna has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration for patients and survivors alike.

At the age of 38, Brianna was diagnosed with stage IV rectal cancer in 2018. Through a combination of liver resection, chemoradiation, low anterior resection (LAR), and adjuvant chemotherapy, she made a remarkable recovery. Brianna's unwavering determination to overcome the challenges she faced has motivated her to go above and beyond in her efforts to support others facing similar struggles.

In 2022, Brianna spearheaded the inaugural Seattle Walk to End Colon Cancer, a groundbreaking event that attracted 620 participants and raised over $115,000. Brianna continues to play an instrumental role in leading the Seattle Colorectal Cancer Alliance chapter, providing guidance and support to the local community of colorectal cancer survivors.

To learn more about Brianna Mercker and her journey, watch the inspiring video here: https://youtu.be/G9SCiQafPZk.