Dear 3-Day Family:

3-Day Nation will be my first time ever participating in the 3-Day! My mom and aunt participated years ago in Michigan. My cousin, Rachel, and I decided to take on the challenge and walk in their shoes, literally! Their team’s name was “Treasured Chest,” and we are “Treasured Chest Junior.” Funny, right?

We have been talking about walking for years. We are walking to honor my mom and grandma “Nana” who both have a history of breast cancer. 

Supporting the 3-Day mission has always been important to me, and the inspiration of that importance is my mom. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, recovered, and was recently re-diagnosed spring of 2020. She is my person, and I can’t imagine living this plentiful life without her by my side. I walk for her. Taking on 60 miles isn’t nearly comparable to the hardships she has faced. The personal struggles she has experienced have made her a stronger person, and I look up to her strength in every way.

Raising money for others who are fighting is a newfound passion of mine. Breast cancer is an awful disease and devoting my time to empower other women is something that I cherish. As a first-time participant fundraising for the first time, I am very blessed to have many caring and generous individuals within my life. I started fundraising very early which has helped me to slowly increase funds over time.

Even during these unprecedented times, family and friends were willing to give what they could. All donations I have received, big or small, have helped my goal to end breast cancer forever. 

I wanted to let other newbies know that they can do it! The fundraising tip that I have found most success with is emailing friends and family about my fundraiser. Many people were so excited that I was taking on the 3-Day challenge and were beyond generous in donating to my cause. I emailed around 100 friends, family, acquaintances, past teachers, etc. in order to gain more donors for my walk. Another tip I have is to continue re-sharing your Facebook fundraiser link every few weeks. It is very typical for Facebook fundraisers to get missed in the newsfeed, and sharing your link every few weeks reminds others of your commitment.

3-Day family, I can’t wait to join you for the first time this year.

For now, I leave you with these parting words: The comeback is always STRONGER than the setback!  

Love, Sarah V., First-Time Walker