Sandra’s journey with the Susan G. Komen 3-Day began in the bustling streets of Manhattan, with a simple yet powerful step. While in remission from breast cancer, she was walking a 5K and found herself yearning to make a more profound impact. It was at this event when Sandra met a man whose wife was walking the same 5K while in the midst of her battle with breast cancer. Noting her own health and this woman’s bravery, Sandra began researching what more she could do, when she stumbled upon the 3-Day. 

With a clean bill of health, Sandra registered to embark on her 3-Day adventure in 2020, which was unfortunately delayed due to COVID-19. The following year, she found herself with a Stage IV breast cancer diagnosis and ended up participating in her first walk while fighting the disease. For the past three years, her motivation to continue walking has been deeply rooted in the incredible community support and the substantial funds she and her team have raised. As she faces the challenges of Stage IV breast cancer, Sandra remains steadfast in her resolve to participate in the 3-Day, not only to raise funds for herself but to stand alongside others who share her experience. With each step, she strives to make a difference that extends beyond her own story, so that future generations don’t have to endure the tumultuous path she has endured. This year, she’s taking her mission to the Pacific coast as she walks in San Diego, continuing once again on the path of hope and healing.  

Among the myriad of memories Sandra cherishes from her past 3-Day walks, one stands out as a testament to the remarkable connections forged during this saga. Two years ago, she found herself climbing a challenging hill, her determination slightly waning. However, a fellow walker approached her and struck up a conversation, asking about her story. Their interaction and shared purpose propelled her to conquer that hill, proving the incredible power of human connection in overcoming obstacles. 

Sandra’s commitment to raising funds for breast cancer research is unwavering, fueled by her personal experiences. As she puts it, “no mother, daughter, son, husband, etc., should ever have to go through what I have been through,” referencing the years of chemotherapy, radiation, and emotional toll the battle has put on her and her loved ones. Her conviction is a driving force that motivates her to push her limits and inspires others to join her cause. 

When asked about the best piece of advice she’d ever received regarding the 3-Day, Sandra emphasized the importance of taking care of one’s feet by wearing proper shoes. It’s’ a simple yet crucial reminder that speaks to the physical demands of the event (and a great opportunity to buy a cute pair of sneakers). 

For those who are contemplating joining the 3-Day but have yet to take that leap, Sandra offers a message of hope and reassurance: “It is an inspiration and, in the end, not as hard as it seems. The cause is worth it.” Her words echo her own experience, showing that the path to making a difference is accessible to all who are willing to embark on it. While hard, she notes that walking 60 miles is not as hard as what she has been through in her fight against breast cancer. She wants to show people it can be done, and that walking is worth the effort to find the cures. 

In closing, Sandra reflects on her extraordinary journey, one that began amidst challenges and uncertainty. Her inaugural walk, postponed due to the pandemic and undertaken after her Stage IV diagnosis, stands as a testament to her unwavering spirit and determination. With a sense of pride and hope, Sandra reveals that, in just three years, her efforts have contributed to raising around $100,000—a sum that serves as a beacon of hope for the future. As she continues her journey with the 3-Day, Sandra’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the phenomenal impact that one person’s dedication and determination can have on a cause that touches so many lives.