Congratulations to our 2023 New England 3-Day Top Fundraisers!

The 2023 Susan G. Komen New England 3-Day boasted 650 walkers and 200 crew members who collectively contributed $2.1 million in the fight against breast cancer. To wrap up Day 1, our top fundraisers were recognized Friday evening at the Bank of America Celebration of Champions. This year, Bank of America is celebrating the accomplishments of our 3-Dayers by donating a collective $42,000 to the top fundraisers to jump start their 2024 fundraising efforts. Join us in congratulating these teams and individuals for their incredible achievements and contributions!

We kicked off the celebration by recognizing our Rookie of the Year, Marilyn M., who dove right into the Pink Bubble by raising $15,392.40. The crowd applauded her for her contributions as she posed for a picture with Bank of America’s very own Kerryn Ludwig who delivered Marilyn a $500 donation to kick off her 2024 fundraising where we hope to see her on her second ever 3-Day!

Laura P. was then recognized as our top individual fundraiser for raising $50,784.60 and was also rewarded by Bank of America with a $500 donation toward her 3-Day fundraising in 2024. This is her third year as a walker and, in that short time, she has raised a whopping $119,148.12 toward breast cancer research and treatment.

Mimicking the tenacity of our top individual fundraisers, our Small but Mighty Team Award was presented to Walkers for Knockers, a team of eight who together raised $45,370.84. Captained by Beth M., Walkers for Knockers proves that it doesn’t take a huge team to make a huge impact. Beth was rewarded with a $500 donation and each of her teammates received $60 courtesy of Bank of America for their 2024 fundraising efforts.

If the 3-Day teaches us anything, it’s that teamwork makes the dream work, and that’s exactly what our top fundraising team did this year! Their first time as a team, the 18 team members of Kim’s Krusaders together raised $55,633.98 and brought the spirit of the Pink Bubble with every step they took. Their captain, Jeff C., was presented by Bank of America with a 2024 donation of $500 and each team member received a $60 donation.

With our top fundraising walkers accounted for, it was time to congratulate our top individual crew fundraiser, Sharyn E., who raised $6,108.60 this year! Over 15 years and 33 events, Sharyn has raised a total of $92,010.57 and is on the Sweep & Shuttle team. Collectively, all 15 members of the Sweep & Shuttle Crew, captained by Ryan and Melissa A. raised $16,826.72 this year, making them the top crew fundraising team.

It’s never too soon to start doing something good in the world and our 3-Day Youth Corps is a testimony to that fact. Our New England top youth corps fundraiser, Genevieve A., participated in her first ever 3-Day at the age of ten and was able to raise an impressive $4,544.80. Honorable mentions go to our second and third highest youth corps fundraisers Celia J. and Charlotte R. who raised $926.92 and $819.60 respectively.

Whether you were a top fundraiser or hit your own fundraising goals for the 2023 New England 3-Day, the work that you do and the funds that you raise are ever important. On behalf of Bank of America and Susan G. Komen, thank you for all that you do to help fight breast cancer.

September Pink Bubble Story of the Month: Rowena K.

Every 3-Day walker has a reason behind why they partake in this momentous event. Some walkers join the Pink Bubble to do some good in the world while others walk in honor of a loved one or their own survivorship. No matter the reason, every step has a story. Discover Rowena’s incredible testimony as she embarks on her fifth 3-Day in New England.

In 2009, Rowena observed the dedication and passion that her sister exuded while walking the 3-Day. Her sister’s courage and determination to raise awareness, gather donations, and complete the 60-mile mission left an indelible mark on her own spirit. However, it wasn’t until a profound personal loss struck her closest circle that Rowena’s call to walk grew even stronger. Her best friend, Laura, valiantly fought a four-year battle with cancer and tragically passed away at the tender age of 45. Witnessing her sister’s experience during the 3-Day and subsequently losing Laura ignited an unyielding resolve within Rowena to embark on this meaningful journey. Sadly, another heartbreaking loss came in 2019 when her sister-in-law, Beverly, lost her fight against breast cancer at the age of 57, leaving behind a loving husband and three beautiful young daughters.

With her heart heavy, Rowena took her first steps on the Susan G. Komen 3-Day in 2010. Year after year, she walked with renewed determination, participating in subsequent events in 2011, 2012, and 2021. For her fifth year in this empowering journey, Rowena walked in the 2023 New England 3-Day alongside her three nieces, Raney, Ryann, and Roxsan, to whom she will pass the torch. Walking with the next generation, she felt a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing that the legacy of compassion and determination will continue.

Reflecting on her previous experiences, she cherishes countless memories that have touched her soul. Each 3-Day that Rowena has participated in has brought her the gift of new friendships, profound stories of strength, and moments that she will hold close for a lifetime. She shared that the camaraderie and support she found amongst the fearless people she’s met along the way have forever changed her life, leaving an enduring imprint of gratitude within her heart.

When asked about the best advice she’s received regarding the 3-Day, Rowena highlights the significance of preparation, injury prevention, and staying hydrated. From training tips to walking techniques, she emphasizes the importance of setting goals and wearing proper shoes to ensure a comfortable and successful walk.

Additionally, Rowena feels strongly that the importance of raising funds for this cause cannot be overstated. She speaks to how her efforts have enabled the provision of vital education on breast health, free resources & screenings, and a compassionate hand to hold for those navigating the complexity of combatting breast cancer. Furthermore, these funds offer essential emergency assistance to underserved breast cancer patients facing financial crises while undergoing active treatment. By supporting this cause, Rowena feels that she is making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families who need it most.

To those who may be contemplating joining the 3-Day but have yet to take the leap, Rowena urges you not to hesitate. She assures that the 3-Day is an empowering way to show your support and that you will never regret making this commitment. The impact of participating in this event extends far beyond yourself as it has the power to transform countless lives. By participating in the 3-Day, you can become an agent of change, advocate for hope, and a beacon of support for those affected by breast cancer.

She described this year’s experience as unforgettable. She and her nieces had time to bond, laugh, cry, and celebrate as they walked together through the streets of Boston. Although this most likely marked Rowena’s final 3-Day as a walker, she looks forward to participating as a crew member, volunteer, or cheering supporter, because her commitment to this cause remains as strong as ever. She looks forward to passing the 3-Day Walker torch to her nieces in 2024 as she takes some time to let her body rest, heal and recover. Rowena truly embodies what it means to be a member of the Pink Bubble. Brimming with unwavering determination, we can all find the strength to stand beside those affected by breast cancer and raise our voices while we walk. Together, we can bring about a world free from the clutches of this devastating disease as we walk to find the cures for breast cancer.

See previous Pink Bubble Story of the Month blog posts here.

Every walker has their story. What’s yours?

Beth N. is the 2023 Chicago Milestone Award Winner!

Our 2023 Chicago 3-Day Milestone Award Winner is 44-time participant Beth N.!

Over the past 17 years, Beth N. has participated in 44 3-Days and has raised a grand total of $122,328. She is known to be a walking, talking 3-Day encyclopedia and if she doesn’t know the answer to a 3-Day question, she’ll find it for you. She has dedicated a huge part of her life to building the 3-Day family, raising funds for the cause, and being a friend to everyone at the 3-Day. Beth’s friend describes her as “one of the most welcoming people that I have ever met” stating that “when newbies are searching for guidance, Beth will show them the way.” Get to know Beth and how she truly personifies what it means to be part of the Pink Bubble ? encouraging, motivating and inspiring!

What was your inspiration to participate in your first 3-Day??

Honestly, at my first 3-Day in 2002, I didn’t know anyone who had breast cancer. It was the first time an event like this had been in Michigan and I was testing myself to see if I could actually walk 60 miles! Then, of course, I fell in love with everyone in the Pink Bubble and couldn’t stop!

What has brought you back to the 3-Day year after year?

Knowing that I’m making a difference in someone’s life with the money I’m raising each year brings me back each year. That and, of course, my addiction to the Pink Bubble! ?

What is the secret to your 3-Day fundraising success?

It is no secret that I’ve got the best support system around! My friends and family are always there to support each fundraiser I hold, buy my card boxes, ask me to make a quilt or just donate to my 3-Day account. I am truly blessed!

What is your best advice to anyone walking the 3-Day?

Just do it! Don’t think about it too hard or you might talk yourself out of it. It seems daunting, yes, but if you take the plunge, you won’t regret it. There’s such a large team of coaches and participants who will help you on your journey and it will be one of the best weekends of your life!

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned on the 3-Day?

Take time to stop and smell the roses, make a new friend, be a friend, give and receive hugs, and believe in yourself. We are all wildly capable of doing amazing things as long as we just believe!