Explore the Coastal Route Before the 2024 San Diego 3-Day!

The Susan G. Komen 3-Day® returns to San Diego, where the sun shines bright and the community support is all-encompassing. Where sunny skies meet sandy shores, and the ocean breeze carries the promise of adventure with each step. As you soak it all in, find yourself in the best of San Diego’s seaside splendor as we walk through some of the city’s most iconic and breathtaking locations. From Del Mar to Old Town, this journey promises to be a memorable exploration of Southern California’s coastal paradise.  

Day 1 

Our journey begins in Del Mar with a lively and touching Opening Ceremony to kick off the spirited event as survivors and thrivers lead the way and the infamous SDPD bike team cheers you on. You’ll soon be greeted by man’s best friend as you approach the Del Mar Dog Beach, where owners bring their furry friends to run, play, and swim while watching surfers catch some waves. Continue toward Torrey Pines State Beach, a beautiful coastal destination known for its dramatic cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and stunning ocean views. The beach is nestled below the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which is famous for its namesake trees, the rare Torrey Pine, found in only a few places in the world. 

Continuing, you’ll approach the Salk Institute for Biological Studies which is dedicated to understanding fundamental life processes in fields such as biology, neuroscience, immunology, and genetics. It has made significant contributions to scientific research and medical advancements, including breast cancer research supported by the funds you’ve raised for Susan G. Komen®. With research on the mind, you’ll soon approach Ellen Browning Scripps Pier and UCSD Scripps Institution of Oceanography, where extensive scientific research and oceanographic studies are conducted to maintain the beautiful waters and marine life you see on your walk. As you venture further south through La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Cove, keep your eyes peeled for exciting marine life such as leopard sharks, sea lions, harbor seals, and bottlenose dolphins in the crystal-clear waters. You’ll even pass by Children’s Pool La Jolla where harbor seals and sea lions sunbathe and nurse their pups!  

You’ll then complete your final miles of the day with a cheering station at the Taylor Branch Library, located in Pacific Beach, before strolling into camp at Crown Point Shores Park. Here you can enjoy some Bank of America massage chairs, delicious food, and a thrilling Celebration of Champions where we’ll recognize top fundraisers and raffle off some fundraising dollars for your 2025 Komen 3-Day! 

Day 2 

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at camp before venturing toward Mission Bay’s South Cove. Home to various bird species, you and your fellow walkers can enjoy some bird watching as you soak up the calm, protected waters. Continue toward the coastal neighborhood of Ocean Beach, where you’ll venture onto Narragansett Hill, a hidden gem with priceless views. Embrace the panoramic views of the coastline, including Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, Point Loma and even La Jolla! 

Speaking of breathtaking views, you’ll continue toward Sunset Cliffs National Park, whose name says it all! The park stretches along the coastline from Point Loma to Ocean Beach and is a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and scenic photography. Breathe in the ocean air as you venture toward South Mission Beach and Sail Bay, where you’re likely to see water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailboats. Wrap up 40 miles as you return to camp for a touching Honor Ceremony as we honor all those affected by breast cancer and absorb an extra dose of inspiration as we head into the final day tomorrow.  

Day 3 

Our final day of exploration welcomes a visit to Ocean Front Walk and the nearby Belmont Park, a historic amusement park that’s been entertaining visitors since 1925. It offers a peek into the 20th century and is home to the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster. Feel an adrenaline rush as you stroll past and snap a picture on the historic beachfront boardwalk. Next, venture to Bonita Cove, a tranquil bay area with stunning views of Mission Bay that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It’s a tranquil and relatively secluded spot compared to some of the more bustling areas in Mission Bay Park, making it a great place to reflect on your reason for walking the 3-Day®. 

Continue toward Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI), a nonprofit organization dedicated to marine research and conservation. Here, they conduct a wide range of scientific studies aimed at understanding marine ecosystems, promoting sustainable fisheries, and protecting marine wildlife. Close by, you’ll approach SeaWorld San Diego who houses a plethora of animals such as sloths, penguins, and marine life!

 History buffs will appreciate the visit to the Mormon Battalion Historic Site, where you can step back in time and learn about the role of the Mormon Battalion in San Diego’s development. From here, our journey boasts a visit to the Old Town Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of San Diego’s historic heart. Here, you’ll gain a new perspective on the city’s evolution and maybe even reflect on your own evolution over the past three days. Lastly, don’t forget to explore the vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood of Little Italy before the Finish Line Festival at Waterfront Park. Surrounded by palm trees, you’ll be , offered a Mohawk Flooring SmartCushion, greeted with a fabulous giveaway from Nature’s Bounty, and awarded a stunning medal, thanks to Bank of America.  

San Diego’s coastlines and attractions offer a diverse range of experiences, from natural wonders to commemorated sites and vibrant neighborhoods. The 3-Day takes you on a memorable journey through the heart of San Diego, allowing you to immerse yourself in its unique blend of maritime beauty and urban charm. So, lace up your walking shoes, embrace the ocean breeze, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in America’s Finest City.   

Dallas/Fort Worth Crew Impact Award Winner: Barbara J.

Meet Barbara J., our 2024 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day Crew Impact Award Winner!  

Since her first Susan G. Komen 3-Day® 14 years ago, Barbara has participated 21 times and has raised a lifetime total of nearly $3,000. Since 2007, she has served as Medical Crew and Medical Crew Captain in Denver, Chicago, Seattle, and Dallas/Fort Worth, bringing a fierce attitude and color-coded schedule each time. 

“Barb has been volunteering at the Komen 3-Day since before I knew her. In fact, the first time I heard about the 3-Day® was when she told me about this awesome event she volunteered at every year. She invited me to join her volunteering at the 3-Day the next year. That was 2008, and I have volunteered with her ever since. Her passion and dedication to the mission of helping eliminate breast cancer and helping people in general is infectious. I often marvel at the energy and passion she puts into making sure all our walkers are safe and able to participate to the fullest. She is just amazing, and I thought that even before I married her.” —Dr. Curtis J. 

What was your inspiration to do your first 3-Day???  

My mom found her insurance policy falling short when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Grants from Susan G. Komen funded the organizations that facilitated her mastectomy and care.  

What has brought you back to the 3-Day year after year?  

I came in 2007 to do the 3-Day once at the insistence of my late husband, who was ill himself at the time with cancer, to pay back that “debt.” So many treatments cross over from one cancer to another and several of his treatments were brought about through breast cancer research. He passed away six weeks after that event, and the love I found there coupled with the memories of that first time helped sustain me in the following times. I come back to continue to pass on that love.  

What is your favorite aspect of crewing the 3-Day?   

For me, the 3-Day is a series of core memory events that help me remember why I became a nurse. Outside the daily travails of clinical nursing, the 3-Day is a time to give someone else a core memory.  

What is your best advice to anyone crewing the 3-Day?  

Breathe and enjoy every moment, even when you are exhausted. Look at the participants’ faces; it’s all there.  

What’s a fun fact about you?  

When I was in college, my grandmother would tell me she was helping with the “little neighbor girl,” but I don’t ever recall Gramma telling me her name. During my first time at the Seattle 3-Day, I became close to a social worker assigned to my crew. A year later, after trying to figure out why we felt so familiar to each other, we discovered that she was the “little neighbor girl,” brought together divinely by my Gramma. That same Seattle event is also where I met one of my besties, who absolutely did not like me upon our first meeting. We laugh about that to this day.  

“Barb is an overall kind human. She is fiercely protective of those she adopts into her family and would do anything for them. As a captain she is detail oriented, approachable and makes a mean colorful schedule. I have been blessed to have known her for many years and have had some awesome experiences with her.” — Clay R. 

Congratulations Barbara! 

2024 Susan G. Komen Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day Event Recap! 

The Pink Bubble traded their cowboy boots for walking shoes as we headed to the Lone Star State for the Susan G. Komen Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day. From November 1-3,625 walkers and 220 crew members raised a total of $2.2 million for breast cancer research, community health, patient care and advocacy. 

Day 1 

Walkers began at the Opening Ceremony where we welcomed our new Susan G. Komen 3-Day® host, Beverly Kruse, a breast cancer survivor. Karen D. shared her incredible story as a 44-year-old breast cancer survivor following her diagnosis in April 2024. She is walking in honor of herself, her aunt who passed away from the disease, her friend who is a six-year thriver, and in hope that her stepdaughters and niece never have to hear those four daunting words “you have breast cancer.” “It’s the least I can do for all women and girls,” she shared. Following, Kelley H. shared that in 2004 her best friend Kim was diagnosed with breast cancer, saying, “I remember her son asked one time ‘Why do you have to have cancer?’ and she said ‘Why not? Why not me?’” So, when Kim asked Kelley to walk in 2007, she quickly said yes, walking every year since. In 2014, Kim was diagnosed again, this time with metastatic breast cancer and with her grit and determination she underwent rigorous treatments and participated in countless clinical trials. Ten years later, at the 2024 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day, Kim walked as a thriver hand-in-hand with her best friend Kelley, who sported a stunning bedazzled cane. Both Karen and Kim joined the sea of survivors and thrivers to lead the way out on the route across the Mohawk Flooring Pink Carpet.  

Throughout the day, walkers got to experience an abundance of what the city has to offer as they passed by the JFK Memorial, the Giant Eyeball sculpture, and T. Boone Pickins Cancer Center, a prominent cancer treatment and research center where groundbreaking medical advancements are achieved. Pit stops were decked out with themes from Ducks to Toy Story, where walkers were greeted with all of Andy’s favorite toys, a photo booth, and music reminding us that we’ve all got a friend in the Pink Bubble! As they continued their journey, walkers got to pass by the stunning White Rock Lake and Cattle Drive Sculptures, before returning to camp to rest their feet and enjoy all that Bank of America brings to the Komen 3-Day!  

The beloved Bank of America massage chairs were a hit as we geared up for the Celebration of Champions where our National Presenting Sponsor awarded our Top Fundraisers, Milestone Award Winner, and Crew Impact Award Winners with donations of up to $500 for their 2025 3-Day® fundraising. They also hosted a raffle where five Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day participants won $250 toward their 2025 fundraising efforts; talk about generous! To wrap up the evening our 3-Day hosts Beverly and Lori taught a dance before walkers and crew rested up for the next day! 

Day 2 

After enjoying a delicious breakfast and welcoming our 2-Day Walkers, the Pink Bubble went mobile as we hopped aboard buses to Fort Worth. Our Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day Ultimate Event Experience winner, Jessica M., led the way, accompanied by her 17-year-old daughter Gianna, who reminds us of the next generation we walk for. During the qualifying period, Jessica raised over $7,000 with a good old fashioned bake sale!  

Once in Fort Worth, walkers were able to enjoy the Meg and May Mural, Fort Worth Water Gardens, and Sundance Square Plaza before being greeted by a large cheering station outside of Paddock Park. Here, walkers were welcomed by 4-year-old Aspen who was working hard to draw in chalk and hand out lollipops to walkers who passed by. With a sweet treat in hand, they could play a bit of hopscotch and receive a rating from one of our supporters; everyone seemed to get a perfect 10/10! Another supportive family had flown in from all over the country to cheer on walkers, including their loved ones. Walkers continued toward the Museum District where, outside of the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame, the beloved father/son duo of Moose and Dan cheered on every single walker. With big smiles on their faces, walkers made their way toward the Raining Tacos Mural and TCU Campus before hopping aboard a 3-Day bus back to camp. 

Once returned to camp, walkers were greeted by Youth Corps, crew, and supporters who cheered them straight to the buffet where they could get a hearty helping of mac ’n’ cheese. We welcomed back our last walker before Youth Corps kicked off the Honor Ceremony by sharing their reason for participating. After speeches from two participants, the entire room lit candles and wrote on luminaria bags to honor those who they walk for, placing each reason for walking in front of the stage. With a sea of light shimmering in the dark, we remembered that this is why we walk; because we must.  

Day 3 

After departing the hotel, walkers passed through Dealey Plaza, known as the “birthplace of Dallas,” the unassuming brick-paved square that has borne witness to many pivotal moments in Dallas and American history. From here, walkers were able to get a glimpse of the House of Blues, Oak Lawn Rainbow Gateway Sign and Legacy of Love Monument, and Pay It No Mind mural. We met with an XPO employee, Turstacy, who was a 1-Day Walker walking in honor of her mother, a breast cancer survivor, and for everyone else. Though she arrived alone for her very first 3-Day, she quickly made friends in true Pink Bubble fashion! 

As walkers continued along the route, the skies opened up and participants were instructed to shelter in place for their safety for a bit until the storm passed. As the sun began poking back out, walkers passed through the AT&T Discovery District as they made their final strides into the Finish Line Festival at Reunion Lawn, boasting a stunning view of the Dallas skyline. As we welcomed in all of our walkers, everyone was able to enjoy the festivities including a photo at the Nature’s Bounty wings, free samples, and a chance to meet Marnie, the artist who designed the booth and bags gifted to the participants.  

As our last walkers came in, the Pink Bubble gathered to cheer them on until the Last Walker Flag was raised. The Closing Ceremony began and we welcomed our incredible crew before raising our shoes to celebrate and honor the survivors and thrivers who joined us over the last few days. United in spirit, it was revealed that the 2024 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day raised an outstanding $2.2 million in the fight against breast cancer, prompting a well-deserved dance party to close out the tremendous event. 

Thank you to everyone who made the 2024 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day what it was, and we can’t wait to see you back next year!