Dr. Christopher Becir was named the 2016 Local Hero – Community Builder.
Photo by Karen McKinnon Photography
Those who know him, describe Dr. Christopher Becir as having a warm and genuine demeanour, and note it’s seldom to find a dentist who makes you look forward to appointments.
Along with stories of his generosity and kindness, Becir, a Vancouver Island native, works with the Comox Bay Care Society to care for individuals who would otherwise have barriers to dental treatment. He additionally provides work for many other in need regardless of their financial situation, particularly single mothers and children.
He transitioned into the role working with “a wide variety of people who might be struggling with substance abuse or a physical disability which prevents them from seeing a dentist,” from Dr. Bill Armstrong, who worked at the Cumberland Dental Centre.
He has been known to drop everything to help those in pain, even if they are not regular patients, including on Christmas Even and during Thanksgiving dinner.
It’s no wonder he is receiving the top honour in the Community Builder category for the inaugural Local Heroes Awards.
“I was really shocked and honoured when I found out. I really appreciate (the nomination) because I don’t think what I do is anything beyond and about what a dentist should do,” he said.
Becir noted some of the his greatest satisfaction comes from watching someone smile, particularly if they have had trouble accessing dental care.
“I worked with one woman who all she wanted, was to smile for photos in her son’s upcoming wedding. Something like a smile is so important; it’s one of the biggest compliments I can receive. It’s really nice to see.”
Becir and his practice – Cumberland Dental Centre – was the primary sponsor for the Cumberland Community School Society’s main fundraiser, Santa’s Breakfast. His love for his community also extends to his active membership with the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial.
“It’s a great organization that give back to the community so much,” he added.
The Becir File
Age: 31
Workplace: Cumberland Dental Centre
Lives in: Comox Valley
Family: Wife, Kelsey; son Alexander, 7 months
Quotable: “… I don’t think what I do is anything beyond and about what a dentist should do.”
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