A passionate resident of Denver for the past six years, Coach Alex embarked on their first-ever Susan G. Komen 3-Day® in 2023. With a profound love for the outdoors, crafting, and a newfound interest in hand-building with clay, Alex thrives in mountainous landscapes and creative pursuits. The simple joy of sipping coffee at a local café with friends encapsulates the essence of their desire to live each moment to the fullest.  

In February 2023, Alex began the transformative journey as a Komen 3-Day Coach, marking a shift in their career path. “At the start of that year, I sat down to reflect on what I wanted out of life and realized that I had not been living in line with my values and purpose, and I needed a career change. Finding the 3-Day connected me to a cause that’s important to me and has allowed me to do work that inspires me.” In those winter and spring months of 2023, Alex got to know the Pink Bubble and was thrilled to be able to provide support for the Denver 3-Day walkers. Their excitement grew at the prospect of getting to see it all come together in August. 

When Alex awoke on the first morning of the 2023 Denver 3-Day, they were a mixed bag of emotions; excitement, nervousness, eagerness, and anticipation flooded through their body. The culmination of meticulous planning and the prospect of meeting participants in person was a surreal feeling. For Alex, the highlight of coaching is undoubtedly the opportunity to connect with the participants, in a community unlike any other. “Everyone has a beautiful story, and I am constantly impressed by the strength, kindness, and power of the people I meet [at the 3-Day]”, they shared. “There is something so magical about being surrounded by so many lovely people working together for the same cause.” These traits that persist throughout the 3-Day continually leave Alex in awe, inspiring them to be the best coach and person that they can be. 

For Alex, the most cherished memory of the event was cheering for walkers at the finish line. They saw so many familiar faces and adored watching each participant complete this enormous accomplishment. Witnessing the triumph of Michele, a first-time walker and recent survivor, encapsulated the meaning of the 3-Day for Alex; a reminder of why we walk. “As she crossed the finish line, she fell right into my arms. We shared the most special hug and many happy tears. I was SO proud of her and moved by the way she thanked me for helping her along this journey ? it was such a special reminder of all the magic the 3-Day brings.” 

Having completed their first 3-Day as a coach, Alex was overwhelmed with gratitude for the guidance of their team, especially Coach Staci and Coach Molly. Alex quickly learned to lean into confidence during moments that would otherwise be stressful. Thorough preparation, a supportive team, and remembering that everything would be okay became crucial in overcoming doubts. With that, Alex saw parallels between coaching and walking, inspiring them to switch roles and participate in the Chicago 3-Day as a 1-Day Walker alongside their mom.  

Alex cherished the miles spent walking beside their mother as they laughed, cried, and shared in enjoying string cheese at every pit stop. Alex noticed many unique adversities and challenges that walkers face while on the route. “One thing I learned for sure is that you cannot underestimate the power of training,” they shared. They learned first-hand of the physical undertaking that comes along with walking the 3-Day and feel more prepared than ever to better advise participants in their journey leading up to the event. “Bonus points ? I can also tell them how fun it is to get in a sweep van if the miles get too tough!” 

For those embarking on their very first 3-Day journey, whether it be as a 1, 2, or 3-Day walker, Alex encourages leaning into the experience. Acknowledge the challenges, celebrate the accomplishments, and embrace the moments of vulnerability throughout the journey. The rewards are immeasurable. To anyone contemplating joining the 3-Day, Alex reassures you that thousands have been exactly where you are now, questioning if they could do it… and they did. Emphasizing inner strength and the potential for joy in every moment, Alex invites potential participants to reach out with any concerns, as coaches like Alex are here to empower and guide you. 

Looking forward to the 2024 3-Day, Alex is excited to approach the season with an even better understanding of the event. They express deep gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the 3-Day family and eagerly anticipate meeting participants on the route in 2024. If you’re new to the 3-Day or are thinking about walking in 2024, reach out to Alex at denvercoaches@the3day.org to hear more about their experience or ask any questions you may have. The journey continues, and the Pink Bubble awaits with open arms.