August Pink Bubble Story of the Month: Lisa P.

Lisa P., Team Powered by Optimism

I first noticed a mass in my left breast around September or October of 2003 [at the age of 35, but] I was nursing my newborn daughter without difficulty, so I didn’t think much about it. I had my first OB/GYN appointment after giving birth in January, 2004 where I mentioned the mass to my doctor, and he immediately sent in a referral to a surgeon. I followed through with that appointment and the surgeon ordered an ultrasound. Results were reported as nothing unusual, perhaps a blocked milk duct and it was recommended I return after cessation of breast feeding if the mass was still present. My daughter stopped nursing in April of 2004 and the mass remained, so I called for an appointment with my primary doctor. He was on vacation, so I made the appointment with another doctor in May of 2004 when a follow up ultrasound was ordered. The same doctor that interpreted my first ultrasound also viewed the second and the report came back stating the mass seemed to be slightly smaller and to check back in six months.

[In November] I was able to get an appointment with my primary doctor who asked if anyone had recommended a mammogram, to which I said no. Right then he put in the order for a mammogram, but I put off the appointment until right after Christmas the following month. Shortly after the mammogram, I got a call to schedule a biopsy. The possibility of cancer still had not crossed my mind. Avoidance, maybe?

On January 19, 2005, I received a call at work from the surgeon instructing me to go to the office immediately. My boss’ wife went with me and I was given the diagnosis of breast cancer. I don’t remember the staging classification, but the tumor was 7cm and estrogen positive. A flurry of appointments with the oncologist and surgeons followed; my head was spinning! All I could think about was that I had an 18-month-old daughter at home.

The first oncologist recommended chemotherapy, surgery then more chemo. The neo-adjuvant therapy was to shrink the tumor for better margins for surgery, but I was not fond of that route, so I sought out a second opinion. [The second doctor’s] recommendation was a full mastectomy of the left breast, auxiliary lymph node dissection followed by chemo and radiation. Breast conserving surgery was not an option in his opinion, so surgery was scheduled for February 2005. My final diagnosis after a tissue test came back as estrogen+, HER2+ with no lymph node involvement. Treatment, starting April 2005, would include 8 rounds with the combination of Taxotere, Cytoxan and Adriamycin, over a month of radiation, 5 years Letrozole and 1 year of Herceptin. I was one of the “lucky” ones and didn’t feel terrible while going through chemo; I actually worked the entire time. However, I was thrown for a loop in May of 2005 when I was re-classified as stage 4 and my cancer had spread to a rib. Due to the re-staging, I decided to have my right breast and ovaries removed in the spring of 2006.

My first reconstruction was a train wreck! I ended up having a latissimus flap reconstruction at UCSD which was rough, but the results were impressive. I am now approaching the 20th anniversary of my diagnosis. I am still on Letrozole and will continue with the Herceptin infusion every three weeks until it no longer works. I have an echocardiogram every three months to check my heart function as the Herceptin can be cardio toxic. My oncologist also orders a PET scan every year. Thankfully, I have been NED (no evidence of disease) for 15+ years. When I received my diagnosis, I thought I wouldn’t see my daughter start kindergarten and now she is 2 years away from a college degree in Agriculture Education! She has been my beacon of hope all these years!

[I first heard about the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® from] a coworker of mine who lost her mother to breast cancer and walked in 2006, who made me promise to walk with her in 2007. Did I think in 2007 that I would still be walking in 2024? Heck no! I come back year after year because, even though there have been amazing breakthroughs in treatment, there is still so much that needs to be accomplished, and it takes funds for research and patient support.

I know I am one of the lucky ones, but there are so many who are no longer with us. I have moments of survivor guilt when I ask, “Why me? What makes me different from the others? Why has treatment worked for me and not them?” In my head I can rationalize the scientific reasons, but my heart is another matter. My heart aches for the ones we have lost and the loved ones they have left behind.

Sometimes it is hard to put the feelings into words, but the Komen 3-Day is a feeling like nothing I have ever experienced before. The sense of camaraderie is overwhelming. Everyone is working toward the same goal and purpose…to end breast cancer. Walking every year with my team Powered by Optimism is an absolute joy. This team is my “framily”—friends who have become family. I couldn’t do it without them! For those interested in the 3-Day®, I tell everyone to come out to Opening or Closing Ceremonies, see us on the route or join a training walk and talk to us to find out what it is all about. Sign up to walk one day if you are unsure about all three.

New England 2024 3-Day Event Recap

We kicked off the 2024 3-Day season in historic New England where members of the Pink Bubble gathered from all across the country between August 23-25 to participate in the momentous event! Together, 800 walkers and 190 crew members raised a total of $2.3 million in the fight against breast cancer.

Day 1

New England 3-Dayers entered the Pink Bubble with last year’s Rookie of the Year—Bank of America’s very own Marilyn M. kicking off the Opening Ceremony. Together, nearly 1,000 walkers and crew gathered to ring in the first day with cheers, pins, smiles, and stretches. As a reminder as to why we walk, breast cancer survivor Jessica C. shared how much disparity she’s seen throughout her treatment, proclaiming “this is a very common story… disparities in healthcare often correlate with race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status; why should I have access to care because I’m white and have access to insurance? Don’t we all deserve equal care?” She reminded us of the work that our funds do to combat these issues and passed the mic over to BB, a co-survivor who has both supported and been supported by her daughter, who is also a survivor. Larry W. then raised our Promise Flag in honor of his late wife, Theresa, and late friend Jeannie for whom he walks, in hopes that others don’t have to face what these two incredible women had to face. To kick off the journey, we invited survivors and thrivers to lead the way on the route to embark on the New England 3-Day for their first 20 miles.

Starting from the beautiful Marriott Copley Place, they paraded into Brookline and Chestnut Hill where they were met with stunning views, Boston College, and a chance to connect with one another. One walker was greeted by her three-year-old daughter who was offering everyone high-fives along the route; she has attended the 3-Day with her mother every year since she was 7 months old! They also got to experience a fun baseball themed pit stop before fueling up with a delicious lunch to continue the second half of their day. Before returning to camp, walkers passed by Boston University and MIT, Komen Grantees who continue to perform outstanding breast cancer research each day.

The Pink Bubble welcomed our Last Walker back home to enjoy the relaxing Bank of America massage chairs and a pasta and meatballs dinner before the Celebration of Champions! Bank of America rewarded our Top Fundraisers from Rookie of the Year to Top Fundraising Team with donations up to $500 for their 2025 3-Day fundraising. We also presented our Milestone Award and Crew Impact Award Winners. Additionally, Bank of America hosted a raffle where five New England 3-Day participants won $250 toward their 2025 fundraising efforts and some swag to accompany it. Our 3-Day hosts were joined on stage by Youth Corps and a few participants to learn a fun new dance (don’t worry, it could be done seated, too!). With Day 1 complete, walkers headed to bed to rest their feet for Day 2.

Day 2

The day started and ended with the sun high in the sky as well-rested walkers took to the streets of Boston at 8:00 a.m. accompanied by 2-Day Walkers. Together, they made their way through the Underground Ink Block before passing by the Old State House. They were then met by a Bank of America cheering station adorned with encouraging employees offering pink lemonade, water, candy, and lots of pink goodies like socks, headbands, and pom poms. Shortly after, they passed by Fenway Park where a lively crew of Pink Bubble supporters and walkers gathered, singing Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond.

As they continued their round of 20 miles, walkers got to see one of Komen’s grantees, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where breast cancer patients have access to more than 40 clinical trials at a time — many of which are changing the standard of care worldwide and are not available elsewhere. World class doctors at this incredible institution continue to make strides in breast cancer research including the testing of novel therapies for patients with metastatic breast cancer, making it a particularly inspiring stop along the route. With a reminder of why they walk, participants walked a few more miles before enjoying an incredible lunch to celebrate completing half of their 60-mile journey.

From here, they walked the bubbly streets toward Jamaica Pond, Sam Adams Brewery, and the Isabella Stuart Gardner Museum. With just under three miles to go, walkers were met with a Candy Land themed pit stop where the “Candy Crew” offered lollipops, hydration and smiles. Here, a family of supporters waited for over an hour to cheer on walkers as they awaited their loved ones, Heidi and Abby, a mother and daughter walking their very first 3-Day! Heidi was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2023 and decided to raise money and walk once she realized that she could make a difference. For the last three miles, her son, William, accompanied her as the rest of her family headed back to the hotel to cheer her on as she crossed the Mohawk Pink Carpet back into camp.

No Saturday would be complete without a hearty serving of mac and cheese before heading into the Honor Ceremony. Members of the Youth Corps shared their stories as they lit candles in honor of their loved ones who have been affected by breast cancer. The rest of the crowd followed their lead, placing luminaria bags in front of the stage, a beautiful tribute showcasing the friends and family members behind the “why” of our Pink Bubble family. With hearts full and feet tired, walkers and crew rested up for the final day of the New England 3-Day.

Day 3

Today began by welcoming 1-Day Walkers into the Pink Bubble during a delicious and nutritious breakfast to fuel up before heading out for the final 20 miles. With the sun shining, walkers spent the day witnessing many of Boston’s historic sites including the Freedom Trail, USS Constitution, and Bunker Hill Monument. Shortly before lunch, they were faced with a daunting staircase but our friends from XPO cheered them on with every step, giving them that extra bit of energy as they rounded the corner to rest and eat at the beautiful Marine Park. As they continued down the coast, walkers were met with a “Bugs Booby” themed Grab & Go with just two miles until the finish line!

Walkers took their final strides over the Mohawk Flooring pink carpet and picked up their New England 3-Day medal, provided by Bank of America and victory T-shirts. With tears of joy and smiles from ear-to-ear, walkers snapped some pictures at the Nature’s Bounty photobooth fully equipped with warrior wings and props—pink of course! One team crossed the finish line hand-in-hand with a happy birthday banner for their late daughter Katie who passed away from breast cancer in 2021 and would have been celebrating her 35^th birthday that day.

Our last walker, a former Youth Corps member and first-time walker, made his way in as he was cheered on by hundreds of walkers, crew, staff, and supporters. As the Closing Ceremony began, a sea of shoes were held in the air to salute our survivors and thrivers as they made their way toward the stage. Full of love, comradery, and support, it was announced that our 2024 New England 3-Day raised 2.3 million dollars in the fight against breast cancer! Walkers and crew danced to celebrate the momentous event; we can’t wait to see you back in Boston in 2025!

Were you at the New England 3-Day? What was your favorite part?

New England Route Preview 2024

We’re kicking off the 3-Day season with our New England 3-Day on August 23 in no place other than Boston! Founded in 1630, it’s one of the oldest cities in the United States and played a pivotal role in American history. It was a center of revolutionary activity, including the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Bunker Hill, key events leading up to the American Revolution. As you walk through this magnificent city, history pours from everything you pass and it’s apparent that’s what makes this city special. From its serene harbor and countless colonial monuments to some of America’s most iconic sports teams, Boston is jam-packed with sights to see. We’re excited to share with you some incredible landmarks you’re sure to encounter on your 60-mile walk during the New England 3-Day.

Day 1

The Pink Bubble will come together with a touching Opening Ceremony before heading out on the route, led by breast cancer survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer. Soon after, you’ll pass by the Citgo sign, a Boston landmark and skyline staple since its installation in 1940. Make your way through the quaint tree-lined streets of Brookline, Chestnut Hill, and Brighton as onlookers cheer you on before you come upon Boston University, a Komen Grantee in Allston. The university’s research initiatives include studying genetic and environmental risk factors, exploring novel therapies, and improving early detection methods to make breast cancer a thing of the past.

Cross over the river where you’ll find yourself in the center of Harvard Square in Cambridge. This vibrant hub located adjacent to the prestigious university is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, bookstores, and street performers. The square serves as a gathering place for students, locals, and tourists, offering a lively atmosphere that reflects the area’s academic and artistic spirit. Shortly after, you’ll pass by Harvard Yard, another iconic and historic Boston location that is surrounded by some of the university’s oldest buildings.

Keep an eye out for Graffiti Alley, a designated area where graffiti and street artists can legally express themselves. The walls are constantly changing as new artwork covers previous pieces, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving canvas, making each visit a unique experience and a perfect backdrop for some pictures with your Pink Bubble family. From here, you’ll wrap up the first day by returning to camp for a shower, delicious food, and Bank of America massage chairs before the Celebration of Champions.

Day 2

Your second day kicks off through the Underground Ink Block, a public park and urban art space located beneath the I-93 expressway in Boston’s South End neighborhood. This innovative use of space transformed a previously underutilized area into a vibrant community hub adorned with murals and walking paths. From here, find yourself traversing through Fort Point Channel and passing by The State House, one of the oldest public buildings in the United States. Originally built in 1713 as the seat of colonial government in Massachusetts, this building offers a glimpse into the rich history of Boston and the nation’s early struggles for independence.

Now it’s time to take the spirit of the Pink Bubble over to the iconic bar Cheers where “everybody knows your name,” made famous by its namesake TV show. Shortly after, you’ll be transported to a world of cheering crowds, cracking bats, and the thrill of victory that are associated with Fenway Park. Standing proudly since 1912 as home of the world-famous Boston Red Sox, this massive venue withstands the test of time as America’s oldest Major League Baseball park.

As you continue your journey, you’ll soon pass by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute where Komen-funded research is conducted. Susan G. Komen Scholar, Dr. Sara M. Tolaney spends her days here focused on developing combination therapies for metastatic breast cancer subtypes that normally do not benefit from immunotherapy. She does so by determining the impact of including a novel antibody drug conjugate to enhance the immune response. These are your funds at work!

With an extra infusion of inspiration, continue toward beautiful Jamaica Pond, a stunning 68-acre freshwater pond surrounded by lush greenery designed by Frederick Law Olmsted as part of his vision to create a green belt around the city in the late 19^th century. Still thirsty for cool Boston landmarks? Next up is a stroll past the Sam Adams Brewery where the renowned beer is brewed daily, before walking past The Gardner Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts which collectively contain over 500,000 works of art! Visit another one of Olmsted’s parks as you pass through the Back Bay Fens, originally a tidal marshland transformed into a lush oasis in the middle of the city. Wrap up your day at the 124-year-old Symphony Hall, home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and widely regarded for its exceptional acoustics. Feel the melody as you walk in your tempo back to camp for some delicious macaroni and cheese and a touching Honor Ceremony.

Day 3

The final day begins backwards, starting at the Boston Marathon Finish Line where runners have completed the historic race since 1897. Situated near Copley Square, from here you’ll make your way to the historic Boston Common and Frog Pond, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Follow the footsteps of centuries past as you explore the storied Freedom Trail that connects 16 sites which are historically significant to the American Revolution. As you walk the trail, you’ll be able to admire the USS Constitution, Old North Church, Paul Revere’s House, and more before immersing yourself in the stories of the Boston Tea Party. Friendly reminder that if you’re interested in visiting the Public Garden, be sure to schedule a trip before the 3-Day begins as it is not accessible on event.

For a touch of whimsy, make a stop at the Hood Milk Bottle, a unique landmark that is sure to bring a smile to your face as you head toward the Finish Line Festival. Continue your walk through South Boston, affectionately known as “Southie” and make a stop at the local favorite L Street Tavern made famous by the movie Good Will Hunting. Pass by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library where you can learn about JFK’s inspiring leadership.

As you complete your New England 3-Day journey through Boston, you will have experienced the city’s historical charm, vibrant neighborhoods and notable attractions. From the cobbled streets of Harvard Square to the fabled Fenway Park, each step will reveal a new facet of this captivating city. Boston’s rich backstory and warm hospitality will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of New England. While you’re out on the route this year, don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and post using the hashtag #NE3Day for a chance to be featured on our social media!