Mother of two and Placerville, CA resident Heidi S. has raised money and participated in many breast cancer events since her breast cancer diagnosis 20 years ago. Now, she’s excited to participate in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® and become a part of the wonderful community that is the Pink Bubble. We asked Heidi to tell her story as she embarks on her journey for the 2022 San Diego 3-Day.
Hello 3-Day Family,
It has always been about HOPE. Twenty years of hope, in fact. I am so honored and excited to participate in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day ® for the first time!
This year, November 2022, marks an incredible milestone for me. I will be celebrating 20 years as a breast cancer survivor! I am choosing to participate in the Komen 3-Day to not only celebrate all the memories I have been blessed to make, but to offer hope to those who are currently fighting this disease.
My story is typical of many other women who share this sisterhood. In 2002, at age 36, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. To say I was shocked is an understatement. I was married not yet 10 years, with two little boys aged 5 and 2, and our world was rocked to the core. Surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and reconstruction became our lives for several years. My only hope was to create as many family memories as I could and live to see my boys grow up. I can’t tell you how blessed I am to report that those little boys are now 25 and 22.
Over the years, with my husband and boys in tow, I have raised money for several organizations to support the cause, help find the cures, and give back for all the support that was shown to us in our time of need. My best friend and I have walked in other events in several cities over the years, raising funds, and participating for those who cannot. Offering hope through service and shared vision is life changing. There is real strength in numbers! I am beyond excited to experience this with the 3-Day®!
I have found that raising money for the 3-Day has been pretty easy with the tools we are given. I posted my link on my Facebook page and within a few days had raised $1,700! Reposting this week has bumped me to almost the full $2,300. With several months until the walk, I am certain I will meet and exceed my goal!
I am looking forward to the Pink Bubble experience for so many reasons. Hearing stories of hope, determination and resilience is always a reminder of why we all do what we do. The energy of the crowd coming together for a common goal, that feeling of accomplishment for walking farther than I ever thought I could walk and sleeping in a pink tent are all things I am so excited for. There is such beauty in shared experience.
So, from this newbie to the 3-Day family, thank you for welcoming me, encouraging me, and helping me celebrate…life.
“Once you choose hope, anything is possible.”—Christopher Reeve
Heidi S.
Team 20 Years of Hope
Would you like to join Heidi and thousands of other dedicated men and women who, each year, pour their hearts and souls into taking on an incredible challenge: a 3-day, 60-mile journey? Learn more here.