We began our 2017 Susan G. Komen Twin Cities 3-Day with an inspiring and beautiful Opening Ceremony as the sun broke through the clouds in Edina at the Southdale Mall. Our Opening Ceremonies this year are led by participants, with special recognition given to our breast cancer survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer.
Crew members, walkers, and supporters joined their hearts and hopes in the shared promise of bringing about the end of breast cancer, one footstep and mile at a time. Take some time to get to know our Opening Ceremony speakers.
Shelly Owens – My Sister
I walk for my bestest friend and little Sister, Angela, who is here today to witness her first ever 3-Day, and is battling Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. She needs a miracle drug so her 3- and 4-year-old children can enjoy many more years with their mommy, and because this world will never be the same for Me if she’s not in it. I’m Shelly and I am More Than Pink.
Carolyn Opsahl Hopp – My Friend
I walk in memory of my friend Becky! She was diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 30 and lost her courageous fight at the age of 36. I made her a promise to be a part of creating a world without breast cancer, and I have every intention to make that promise a reality. I’m Carolyn and I am More Than Pink.
Lisa Healey – My Family
My immediate family has logged more than 30 3-Day walks, but this year’s 3-Day took on a whole new meaning when my sister, Jill, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because of Komen, she was diagnosed early, which also helped to make the early stages of her journey a little bit easier. Jill still has a long road ahead, but I’m hoping with the research that Komen continues to fund, a cure will be found very soon. I’m Lisa and I am More Than Pink.
Lauren Rectenwal – My Mom
I am walking this weekend to honor my mom’s strength and determination throughout her battle. My mom is my best friend and I couldn’t imagine my life without her. Cancer sucks! I’m Lauren and I am More Than Pink.
Todd Wallin – My Wife
I walk in honor of my best friend and wife, Kay, who is also a 15-year survivor. I also walk for the future: for my daughter and granddaughter and all of you! I’m Todd and I am More Than Pink.
LeAnn Poirier – My Children
I walk in honor of my children for the sixth year in a row, in the hopes they will NEVER have to fight breast cancer. I walk for those who cannot and for those who have lost their battle against breast cancer. I honor and admire all women and men for their fight and determination to never give up. I’m LeAnn and I am More Than Pink.
Melissa Dickhausen – Ceremony Host
I walk because it is the one thing I can do to help make a difference. I have watched too many of my friends and co-workers battle breast cancer and have lost too many amazing women to it. By walking, I’ve been able to spread awareness about breast cancer beyond just my family and friends, which has led to earlier diagnoses and quicker starts to treatments. And that’s why I continue to walk. I’m Melissa, I am More Than Pink… and I’m honored to welcome you to the 2017 Twin Cities 3-Day!
