interests. We only have to serve the people's health and remain committed", was her credo. Mildred Scheel broke the taboo in society and started an open and free public discussion about cancer in general, and especially about uterine cancer, breast cancer and prostate cancer in particular. Shortly after founding the German Cancer Aid, Mildred Scheel had succeeded in winning over the medical profession to cooperate in these efforts. She initiated the first scientific medical conferences of cancer experts from Europe, United States and Asia. In 1985 she died of complications from cancer. She kept the diagnosis secret from everybody except her family and very close friends. The Honorary grave of Mildred Scheel is located at the Old Cemetery in Bonn. Honors and awards The major honors awarded to Mildred Scheel include more than 20 state medals of honor. She received the 1976 German Media Prize Bambi. In the following years 1977, 1978 and 1979 she was elected the Woman of the Year in Germany. Several institutions, schools and streets have been named after her: for instance, in the cities of Dresden, Solingen, Neuss and Calw. In 2008, the city of Munich posthumously honored the founder of German Cancer Aid by naming a street in the famous Schwabing district „Mildred-Scheel-Bogen” (by the decision of the City Council on 14 February 2008). It is also recalled that the doctor lived, studied and worked in the Bavarian capital Munich for many years. References External links Short Biography of Mildred Scheel Physicians from Cologne German people of American descent German humanitarians Women humanitarians Cancer awareness 1931 births 1985 deaths Spouses of presidents of Germany Grand Crosses 1st class of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany Walter Scheel