We began our 2016  Komen 3-Day with an inspiring and beautiful Opening Ceremony as the sun rose above the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Crew members, walkers, and supporters joined their hearts and hopes in the shared promise of bringing about the end of breast cancer, one footstep at a time. Take some time to get to know our Opening Ceremony speakers.

Kara Corridan & Trish Jansen – My Friend

We lost two of our childhood friends, Kelly and Linda, in the last year. They were both 44 when they died and both had triple-negative breast cancer. They also have five children between them, ages 5 to 18. We are walking to help fund research and prevent another family from the heartbreak that Kelly’s and Linda’s families are going through. I’m Kara, and I’m Trish, and we ARE the 3-Day.

Allison Lustig – My Aunt

Ten years ago, my family and I began our 3-Day journey in honor and support of my Aunt Judy’s victory with breast cancer. Today,
I begin my 14th event as a first-time walker, in celebration of her 15th year of being cancer free! I will walk with her strength, determination, courage and love. I’m Allison and I am the 3-Day.

Becky Izadi – My Father

I walk in honor of my father, Ron Lewis, who lost his battle to breast cancer 5 years ago. I’m here to bring awareness to the effect this disease has on men, as well as women. Before he passed away, my father urged me to seek early testing, and as a result I discovered that I TOO had breast cancer. Thanks to my superhero, I will live a longer, healthier life. Love you, Dad! I’m Becky and I AM the 3-Day.

 Emmanuel Bryant – My Mother

I’m thankful to be here surrounded by my 3-Day family. I joined the 3-Day last year in Seattle, and after the first day, I knew this was something I wanted to keep doing. I walk in memory of my Mom, JeRhonda Lynem. I also walk for every woman, man and child that has been affected by breast cancer. I’m Kentucky and I am the 3-Day.

 Mike Hattrup – My Wife

This will be my sixth 3-Day supporting my wife and Team Michelle, but my first time walking! Instead of cheering from the sidelines, I decided to walk this year beside my wife, who has been battling breast cancer off and on for the last three years. I’m proud to be part of this great team of fighters! I’m Mike and I AM the 3-Day.

 Helen Hall – My Sister

This is my 18th walk with my sister who is a 37-year breast cancer survivor. I walk because I believe that one day there will be a cure for breast cancer. I’m Helen and I AM the 3-Day.