This year marked a bittersweet milestone for Cindy D.—10 years of walking in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® and 10 years since losing her mother to breast cancer. For Cindy, the 3-Day is more than a fundraising walk; it’s a tribute and a way to stand up against what she calls “the beast.” 

Cindy completed her first 3-Day in 2009, in honor of a friend diagnosed with breast cancer at just 42. Back then, when people asked if breast cancer ran in her family, she always answered no.  

But that changed in 2015. On her parents’ 55th wedding anniversary, Cindy’s mother received the devastating news that she had metastatic breast cancer (MBC), which is the most advanced stage of the disease. The diagnosis came a little over a year after her last mammogram. 

“The beast had found my mom. She didn’t deserve this,” Cindy recalled. “She had dense breast tissue, and it likely wasn’t detected.” 

Just five months later, on Thanksgiving morning, Cindy’s mother passed away. 

This November marked 10 years since her mother’s passing, and Cindy says she misses her every day. Her mom had always been her biggest supporter, especially when it came to the 3-Day. This year, Cindy’s three sons joined her at the San Diego 3-Day to walk in their grandmother’s honor.  

“I know she and I are both so proud of these young men for stepping up to make a difference,” Cindy said. 

Even after a decade of participation in the 3-Day, Cindy returns home from each event feeling the same overwhelming sense of joy.  And this year was even more memorable with her sons by her side.

“The love, support and kindness from walkers, crew, police and the community — especially here in San Diego — are incredible,” Cindy added. “It’s so inspiring to be surrounded by people who may not know each other but share one mission: to end breast cancer.” 

Cindy says in the future she hopes to walk the 3-Day with her granddaughter, Ella.

To learn more about the Komen 3-Day, visit the3day.org. 

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.