2021 is officially here, Susan G. Komen 3-Day® family! With bright eyes, hopeful hearts, and pink shoelaces tied tight, we are ready to start fresh and make 2021 the best year yet.
In our last blog post, we asked you to share one word to describe the 3-Day.
One single word.
Instead of New Year’s resolutions, at the beginning of each year we started setting just one intention.
An intention to guide us in the new year.
This intention is what we think about during our long training walks when our mind wanders.
It comforts us when we’re faced with obstacles and we rejoice with it in times of celebration.
It’s what we come back to whenever we want to make sure we’re on track for where we want this year to go.
And, you guessed it—it is one single word.
This year, we’ve selected twelve members of the 3-Day family to share their 2021 Words of the Year. Each month, we’ll introduce a new person, their word, why they chose it, and learn about their Komen 3-Day journey along the way.
So now, we ask you—what is your 2021 word of the year?
“It wasn’t breast cancer that changed my life, it was the 3-Day.”
We are thrilled to induct another 3-Day participant into the Impact level of our Lifetime Commitment Circle. This exclusive honor is bestowed on those who have reached an incredible fundraising milestone—raising $250,000 for the 3-Day. Liz Goldman has been a part of the 3-Day family since 2004, and we are so inspired by her level of commitment. We asked Liz to answer a few questions so we could introduce you to this amazing woman.
How did you get involved with the 3-Day? In 2003, when I was 41 years old, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. After over a year of treatment, I signed up to do my first 3-Day in New York City. My aunt had crewed in Atlanta before and recommended I get involved. I signed up to walk and my husband signed up to be a crew member.
I met a woman on that walk who had a cancer similar to mine, and she was receiving Herceptin as part of her protocol. I came home and immediately called my oncologist. It was already on his radar, and I started Herceptin shortly thereafter. The research behind Herceptin was funded by Susan G. Komen. To this day, I am convinced (as is my oncologist) that Herceptin saved my life. The New York 3-Day was my first walk, but I knew it would not be my last.
We all know raising money during a global pandemic is not easy, but how did you do it? To be honest, considering the pandemic, I wasn’t sure whether I should try fundraising at all this year. I didn’t want to be insensitive to people’s current problems and worries. But I realized—despite the existence of the COVID-19 scourge, women (and men) were still going to hear those life changing words: “you have cancer.”
So, a group of us from the NY/NJ area who had become friends through our perennial 3-Days decided to band together in defiance! We would do our “own 3-Day” this year. And with that I was off to the fundraising races once again. My dear friend, hero, inspiration, and 3-Day mentor Burt L. had hit the $250K mark earlier this year, and I was about $39K away from that milestone. Some say it is my competitive nature (lol); I say I was on a mission!
I expressed to my all of my donors that COVID-19 bedamned, I was still doing my 3-Day walk and that I was on a mission to reach a coveted goal: $250,000.
Liz and Burt
What is your secret to raising so much money every year? I wish I had a secret to share, but I really don’t. I can only tell you that I have very generous family and friends that have donated to me year after year. They have made my cause their cause, and I am incredibly grateful. I share my story, I “walk the talk” and I ask everyone I know (and many I don’t) for a donation. Honestly, with the cause on my mind so often, fundraising for the 3-Day becomes second nature.
I would be remiss if I did not mention the huge boost I receive from everyone I know and love. Their cheerleading and encouragement give me strength and inspire me to carry on with my mission of living in a world without breast cancer. And my husband Win leads the way. He has been a crew member (a much harder job than walking 60 miles) every year that I have walked. Breast cancer was not just my diagnosis, but his as well. Every one of my 3-Day walks, and every dollar I have raised, would not have been possible without his support and love.
Liz and her husband Win
What keeps you coming back to the 3-Day again and again? The answer to this question is easy but unfortunate: I will walk until I can’t, or until there is no need to, whichever comes first. There are too many women (and men) who still hear those words “you have breast cancer.” Their lives are turned upside down emotionally, mentally, and of course physically while going through difficult treatment. Sadly, too many still die, leaving behind loved ones way too early in life. I know that many have walked before me, and I benefited from their commitment and efforts. The funds they raised helped bring about early detection, and new treatments and protocols that give a better quality of life during treatment, resulting in extended and saved lives. I feel it is my obligation to pay it back and pay it forward.
What are some of your top 3-Day memories from past years? There are so many! The beautiful cities I’ve walked in and the lasting friendships I have made over the years will always fill my heart. Those very cute San Diego police officers who dance in their very cute uniforms, the cheering stations, the food, the rest stops, the food, the decorations, the food—well, you get the idea.
Unfortunately there are bittersweet ones as well: a daughter walking because her mom just passed away, a husband walking because he just lost his wife, a newly married young woman who just had a bi-lateral mastectomy at the age of 28. I hold onto these tearful memories just as tightly as the joyous ones, to remind me that I cannot stop walking.
Liz on the San Diego 3-Day
Now that you’ve raised $250,000 what’s the next goal you’ve got your eyes on? I just want to keep “walking the talk.” I am dedicated to training for the 3-Day, raising as much money as I can and spreading the word about breast cancer and Susan G. Komen.
For my 20th survivorship celebration in two years, I would like to do all the 3-Day walks that year and have my son and daughter join me on one. They have always been my reasons for everything. My cancer diagnosis was aggressive and quite frankly the outcome was not looking so positive when I was initially diagnosed. I am so grateful to be alive and be part of their lives every day.
Liz, her son Jason, and her daughter Kara from Boston 2013, her 10-Year Celebration
How do you live the 3-Day spirit and spread the word all year long? In the same spirit I mustered to do battle against this disease from a personal standpoint, I now do battle on a global basis, on behalf of all those women and men who deserve the same outcome I have enjoyed since being pronounced cancer-free.
Beginning with my first 3-Day, my thoughts about my cancer and my thoughts about the 3-Day have become more and more intertwined, to the point where when I share my story about breast cancer, the 3-Day is always, always a part of it.
I have always said, “It wasn’t breast cancer that changed my life, it was the 3-Day.”
Tell us what the 3-Day means to you. I think of the 3-Day as the perfect combination of celebration, remembrance, and forward-looking determination.
It’s a celebration of the strides we’ve made and a joyous gathering of everyone who, by their very presence, is a part of the Komen family and, as such, my extended family.
The remembrance is the solemn bittersweetness we feel and think of when remembering and honoring all those lost to this disease.
The forward-looking determination is the knowledge of how much good has come from what we have all contributed to the 3-Day, and the drive toward building on that foundation of progress, helping to create a brighter future for the world by eradicating breast cancer.
I am proud and honored to be a part of the 3-Day.
Thank you, Liz, for your many years of dedication to the 3-Day and our mission to end breast cancer. We’re honored to be such an important part of your life and are lucky to have you as part of our family. The incredible amount of money you’ve raised is working to save and extend the lives of thousands of women and men facing breast cancer.
Liz’s achievement will qualify her for the Impact level in the Lifetime Commitment Circle. She joins Loretta E., Kathy G., Bert S., and Burt L. as Impact members at the $250,000 level.
We’re thrilled to announce the winners of the Susan G. Komen’s AVEENO® Champions Contest—our five AVEENO® Champions! These special members of the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® community each bring their own unique chapters to the 3-Day story, and we’re proud to be able to share them with you on the blog. As you continue to prepare for your 3-Day journey, AVEENO® Cares and is here for you as a resource and support system. Today, join AVEENO® Cares and the Komen 3-Day family as we introduce our five AVEENO® Champions. #AveenoCares
Jennifer R.
Tell me about your 3-Day experience?
I first participated in the 3-Day in 2008, and I have participated once each year since. 2021 will be my 13th walk. I’ve walked most of them but have crewed two. I walked and crewed in Boston through 2013, and then walked Seattle, Philadelphia twice, and San Diego twice; I returned to New England in 2019.
Why do you participate in the 3-Day?
My best friend/sister-by-heart/cousin, Lori D., was diagnosed in 2005 with breast cancer. We have a strong family history, so the only thing that was surprising was that she was so young when diagnosed (31). The women in our family are also survivors, so we were hopeful. Lori’s other best friend, Bonnie G., wanted to do something big and signed up for the 2006 3-Day after she heard an ad on the radio. Lori had finished treatment and walked with her and one other woman; I decided not to join them — it seemed too daunting. I had participated in smaller walks before, and, honestly, the crowds of people and intense heat did not bring out the best in me.
Lori loved the 3-Day and signed up for 2007. I mentioned to her that I felt I should walk with her and she assured me it was not “Jen-friendly” due to the reasons I mentioned. Before she could walk in the 2007 walk, Lori was diagnosed with lung cancer (which no one could understand), and her breast cancer metastasized to her brain and her spine. She was too sick to walk in August 2007 and passed away at the beginning of September. I knew I had to walk the 2008 3-Day in her honor. She was devoted to the 3-Day; when diagnosed with lung cancer, many suggested she quit the 3-Day and do the Relay for Life instead — she refused. The 3-Day was important to Lori; now, it was equally important to me.
I signed up for the 2008 3-Day and told my teammates (our team was named Lori’s Breast Friends) that I didn’t know if I would be emotionally able to actually walk all three days, but I would try. I walked all 60 miles — for Lori. I continue to participate in the 3-Day for Lori, and so we can have a future where breast cancer doesn’t take someone’s best friend, sister, mother, cousin — anyone.
What does being named an AVEENO® Champion mean to you?
I applied to be an AVEENO® Champion because I had used AVEENO® products in the past and wanted to try to support a company that was sponsoring the 3-Day. The companies that support Komen and the 3-Day have an increased value in my book, and I thought I would try to support one. Also, I thought if I liked the products, being an AVEENO® Champion would be a great way to share my “approval” of the products and company with my friends on social media — a way to give back to a company that is giving to the 3-Day.
Lynda dC.
Tell me about your 3-Day experience?
2021 will be my 13th experience with the 3-Day. I started in 2002 in San Francisco, walking and then crewing. In 2006, I walked the 3-Day in Seattle, a grueling event that is still talked about today by those who participated. I began my annual participation in the San Diego 3-Day in 2010, and I’m now a five-time walker and four-time crew member for pit stops and camp services. I had to sit out in 2019 but will be back in San Diego for 2021. I look forward to the 2021 San Diego virtual kick-off!
Why do you participate in the 3-Day?
In 2002, I only knew one person who was affected by breast cancer. My aunt had passed away long before the advances in treatment that are available today. In her memory and as a personal physical challenge, I made the commitment to train, fundraise, and take the 3-Day journey. All it took was one experience, and I was “hooked.” The 3-Day mission is always my main reason for joining, and the experiences, people, joy, and friendships keep me participating every year.
What does being named an AVEENO® Champion mean to you?
The 3-Day brings awareness to breast cancer and our commitment to find a cure. As a major part of that effort, Susan G. Komen and 3-Day participants focus on health and well-being. In turn, AVEENO® products emphasize well-being, and being named one of the Champions means that together, we will bring health into the spotlight. It is an honor to be one of the AVEENO® Champions.
Julie “Alaska Julie” J.
Tell me about your 3-Day experience?
I have participated in 25 events — walked 23 and crewed two in Arizona, Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, San Diego, Seattle, New England, Michigan, and Philadelphia. I wish I could remember how many in each city, but I can’t! I also did a solo 3-Day in Alaska this summer…so really I count that I’ve done 26 events, but the Alaska one wasn’t official.
Why do you participate in the 3-Day?
I did my first event not knowing anyone who had breast cancer. I was sitting in my apartment in Arizona when I saw a commercial for the 3-Day. I was at a point in my life when I needed to do something for others. I figured I would do one and be done. Boy, was I wrong. Once I learned more and met so many amazing people involved in the 3-Day, I knew I had to keep walking and raising awareness and money for breast cancer. I will continue to do so till there is a cure. I have learned so much to be able to help friends and strangers who have been diagnosed. I also put together chemo and radiation boxes for people and also serve as a chemo partner if they need one.
What does being named an AVEENO® Champion mean to you?
First, I already use AVEENO®. It is cold and dry in Alaska in the winter. I am excited to spread the word that AVEENO® is a new sponsor for the 3-Day, to let people going through treatment know how AVEENO® can help them, and how AVEENO® is supporting Susan G. Komen. I am also happy to represent and spread the word about Komen and the 3-Day.
Carolyn P.
Tell me about your 3-Day experience?
I created a team, Feet to Beat Breast Cancer, in 2005. This will be our 16th year walking —– 14 in Atlanta, one in San Diego, and now we’re going to Chicago in 2021 — where we will surpass our $1,000,000 fundraising milestone! We have an absolutely amazing group, which now includes both my teenage sons!
Why do you participate in the 3-Day?
I cannot NOT participate. My mom, sister and several close friends and teammates have battled breast cancer. I have lost two of those teammates, both young moms. I have seen so much pain, suffering and loss. The 3-Day gives me hope. Susan G. Komen has facilitated incredible progress in all facets of this disease, and I am proud to be a part of that. My team and the people I have met through the walk have had a profound impact on my life. It is truly a gift to be able to share the road and the journey with tremendous men and women while raising money for breast cancer research and patient support.
What does being named an AVEENO® Champion mean to you?
I am very honored to be named an AVEENO® Champion! As a loyal customer, I was excited to hear AVEENO® would serve as a sponsor of the Susan G. Komen 3-Day series. I respect the company not only for its product excellence, but for its commitment to wellness. “We are committed to healthy, holistic practices that ensure we always do right by you, your family and the planet.” I am proud to support this company who is so generously giving back!
Kerrie K.
Tell me about your 3-Day experience?
I walked the Atlanta 3-Day in 2017 & 2018, the San Diego 3-Day in 2019, and I am walking Dallas/Fort Worth and San Diego in 2021 — I can’t wait!
Why do you participate in the 3-Day?
It does not matter where we come from, who we are, or what country we live in. We all are connected as the human race in knowing someone that is battling breast cancer. It’s awful, isn’t it? I lost my mom, aunts, and friends to cancer, but I have also seen remission in others. We all have our purpose in our lives, and we are all Mighty Pink Warriors. This is my purpose — to raise money, walk for those who can’t, and give hope to others. Hopefully, this world will be without cancer someday! I love that possibility.
What does being named an AVEENO® Champion mean to you?
I am so happy and honored to part to be part of this wonderful opportunity with Susan G. Komen and AVEENO® in our fight against breast cancer. Together, we can give men and women hope in the fight against breast cancer!
Thanks to AVEENO® for their continued support of the 3-Day, and congratulations again to our AVEENO® Champions!
