We began our 2017 Susan G. Komen Seattle 3-Day with an inspiring Opening Ceremony as the sun started to rise on a perfect fall day on the West Coast. 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.

Troy Richards – My Wife

I walk for Misty, my wife, and the mother of our two boys. She is the rock and foundation of our family. Her attitude and perseverance should be an inspiration to anyone affected by such an invasive disease. I also walk for women and men still battling to stay healthy and safe. I’m Troy and I am More Than Pink.

Cathy Parsell – My Friend  

I’m walking to honor my friend, Carole, a fierce warrior in the animal rescue community. She used that same warrior attitude when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She boldly showed breast cancer that she was More than Pink and won the battle. We love you, Carole! I’m Cathy and I am More Than Pink.

Veronica Claudio – My Mother

I am walking in memory of my sweet momma, Claudia Claudio, who is truly the definition of an angel. She taught me to LOVE life and find the joy in every day, to always turn the radio up when Rick Springfield is playing, and what true courage and strength look like. She will forever be remembered for her signature dimples, her bright light, and the legacy that she left that still lives on today. I’m Veronica and I am More Than Pink.

Holly Raissipour – My Children
It is continually my honor to walk the 3-Day as a survivor all the way from Boston. I am humbled and amazed at the continued generosity, support and love of people. This year is my 8^th year and 11^th walk, and all three of my daughters, my husband and all my friends support and cheer me on from afar to help find a world where no one will ever hear again the words: “You have breast cancer.” I’m Holly and I am More Than Pink.

Heather Jellerson – My Sister

I am walking for my sister, Kimberly Valerine Holmes. Kim lost her fight, but worked so hard to laugh her way through it. I’m participating today because her strength inspires me to walk so that others may have a better chance to win their fight with breast cancer. I’m Heather and I am More Than Pink.

Lauren Leiker – My Aunt

In 2005, I walked my first 3-Day for my Aunt Barb. Today, I walk again for my aunt, a two-time survivor, and for all who have fought and are still fighting breast cancer. I’m Lauren and I am More Than Pink.

Dena McLauchlin – Ceremony Host

I walk for an amazing friend who lost her courageous battle six years ago. I made a promise to her that day that I would do everything I could to keep fighting to end breast cancer. Since Jean passed, I have had four friends lose their courageous fight?two in just the last three months. So as I begin my 14^th walk here in Seattle, I will dedicate these 60 miles to all my friends who were sent home too early, to my two aunts who also fought this fight but earned their wings, to all my friends who are currently fighting, and to all my friends who will fight. I’m Dena, I am More Than Pink… and I’m honored to welcome you to the 2017 Seattle 3-Day!