<p>Whitney Cribbs</p>

Award recognizes courage in those who battle life-threatening Illnesses

Sixteen-year-old Whitney Cribbs, who has battled neuroblatoma causing lower paraplegia, has been named a 2012 Community Hero by the Childrens Cancer Association.

The Hermiston teen was nominated and selected for the award because of her exceptional courage, wisdom and grace in the face of serious medical challenges.

 According to the CCA, Whitney is a Hero because she has never let her illness prevent her from living life to the fullest, withstanding adversity and physical hardships with incredible maturity.

 She has such a kind heart and isnt angry or resentful. She is very mature and strong and has been able to grasp that this is something she has no control of, says her mom, Sharon Smith.

 CCA announces its list of Community Heroes an exceptional group of 26 children and teens in Oregon and southwest Washington who have fought life-threatening illness with strength and character annually in a Portland-based private event. These heroes are honored and celebrated throughout the next twelve months.

 The Heroes are then honored and celebrated throughout the next twelve months with a Wall of Courage a traveling display featuring portraits of each honoree. The wall celebrates the remarkable achievements of each Hero, and serves as inspiration for everyone who visits this display.

 This years Heroes and the Wall of Courage will be revealed at on May 23 at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry at a private event for Heroes and their families.

 Community Heroes are selected from a group of 100 children and teens nominated by local medical professionals, and represent a diverse group in terms of age, ethnicity and diagnosis. The CCA, based in Portland, created the award and manages the program.