1 in 8 women in the US are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, and it hits even closer to home when your friends, family or members of your community are diagnosed with breast cancer. Black women in the U.S. are about 40 percent more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Susan G. Komen® is focused on reducing those inequities. Susan G. Komen is focused on achieving health equity in the black community. Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment. 

What is your connection to breast cancer?  

I have several friends who either had breast cancer or passed away from breast cancer. I also have a friend who worked on breast cancer research at Morehouse College; ironically, as she began this work, her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. That was over 40 years ago, and she is still here with us today. 

Why are you choosing to participate in the 3-Day?  

I believe that too many women, especially African American women, are not diagnosed early enough or have enough information about breast cancer. Regular screening tests (along with follow-up tests and treatment, if diagnosed) reduce the chance of dying from breast cancer. 

I heard you raised $3,000 in only a week! How did you manage to do this? 

I am surprised but it really did not take long. I requested permission from a friend’s husband (she passed away in 2019) to walk in her honor. Her daughter wrote a passionate blurb about what kind of person her mom was, and I included this statement in my pleas for donations. I sent emails to EVERYONE that I had an email address for and I sent follow-up text messages to assure that they looked for an email from me about the 3-Day. I also emphasized that I am trying to complete my fundraising as soon as possible so I can concentrate on the training. I encouraged them to donate while it was on their mind because this may not be on their priority list, and they may forget. Maybe it’s the phase of life we are in (retirement), but it was FAR easier to get people to respond and send in a donation. Also, many people that I know have been touched in some way by breast cancer ? either in their family or among their friends and neighbors. I pointed out how their donation will be used and that it is tax deductible. 

What are you most looking forward to about the 3-Day?  

I’m looking forward to walking with survivors and other participants. The common goals and camaraderie that we experience are great motivators. I am also looking forward to the fitness benefits for me and experiencing the beauty of San Diego. 

Do you have a favorite moment from the 3-Day that you’ll always remember?  

The excitement and constant smiles that are shown by the crew members, the survivors, other walkers, and the observers along the sidelines are moments I will always remember.   

What was your experience like the first time you participated in the 3-Day? How did your experience change when you came back to walk it again?  

The first time I did the 3-Day, the hardest part was raising funds and meeting the minimum requirement to participate. Maybe it was the phase of life me and my donors were in, (still raising children, making mortgage payments, etc.) but it was much easier this time. I raised the minimum amount in record time. Also, the walk was different between the first time I walked in Atlanta and the second time I walked in San Diego because San Diego has a lot more hills than Atlanta, and thus, much harder. For some odd reason, I did not expect that. 

Are you a part of a team or do you walk solo?  

I walk solo. I do live in Georgia, not California, so I have no one to walk with. I did recently go to the Spring Into the 3-Day event in Atlanta though, and I met many other walkers from Georgia who will be walking in San Diego, so I hope to stay in touch with them and meet up with them in San Diego! 

What advice are you seeking from veteran walkers? 

I’d love advice on other fundraising ideas! I am also seeking encouragement to walk again.   

Do you have any words of encouragement or great fundraising tactics you’d like to share with Robyn? Leave a comment below! And don’t forget to register for a 2022 3-Day at The3Day.org.