Tag Archives: 2017 Michigan

Congratulations to the 2017 Michigan 3-Day Local Impact Award Winner, Dan Sinclair

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For the 2017 Susan G. Komen 3-Day® season, we’re pleased to be featuring the Local Impact Award. This award is being given to participants who have been instrumental in strengthening the 3-Day® community throughout the year. Local Impact Award honorees have gone above and beyond in their efforts leading training walks, attending 3-Day community events, supporting the 3-Day staff year-round at meet-ups and workshops, and in general, making a difference by building lasting relationships and showing commitment to the 3-Day in all they do.

Please join us in congratulating the 2017 Michigan 3-Day Local Impact Award Winner, Dan Sinclair.

“My first ever 3-Day was in 2002 when I was a student of Massage Therapy and I needed 50 hours of civic volunteer hours to complete that part of my training at school. And I was told that I could complete all that time in a single weekend. Little did I know how much that weekend would impact my life. When the 3-Day returned to Michigan in 2004, I was ready! Only to find out that they no longer used a massage therapy team for the walkers. While the crew coordinator was explaining this to me he noticed I was wearing a “Harley” tee shirt and asked if I rode? I explained I’d been on motorcycles most my life and his reply was “Have I got a deal for you”. In 2005 my daughter was a walker and I was on crew. She quickly introduced me to her walking friends and suddenly, I had a 3-Day family and was given the moniker of their “3-Day Dad” and over the years that family has taken a special meaning to my life. In 15 years, I went from not knowing anyone that has had breast cancer to becoming close friends with so many people who live with it daily and then losing a lifelong friend to this monster. At age 60 I did my first walk in Denver with some of my Michigan Crew members and discovered traveling and seeing the country through PINK shaded glasses is one fine way to live. So now I crew everywhere I can and walk at one event each year.

My passion is the water, boating, swimming, scuba diving or just plain sitting at the beach. I taught safe boating classes during the Michigan winters and was off to the marina in the spring. I was fortunate enough to have a wife that shared my passion for boating and allowed me to follow my dream. In 1986, we came across “Luv-It”, a boat big enough for the family to be comfortable on and this year we are enjoying our 31st season on board her.

Being retired Navy, I’ve seen parts of the world that most people are not fortunate enough to witness first hand, some spectacular, some downright devastating and everything in between. So, when I came across the 3-Day Community, I thought, “If only the world could be like this”.

So, year after year I come back and add my “two cents” in hopes that it makes someone somewhere take their mind off their troubles, their sickness, their pain and smile just a little bit…

There is a cure out there and together we will find it.”

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What do some of Dan’s friends have to say about him?

“I have had the absolute privilege of working, and walking, side by side with Dan for 14 years now.  I’ve witnessed first hand the impact he has had not only here in Michigan but in the other event cities as well.  He is ever present and always smiling.  His willingness to help fellow crew and walkers knows no bounds.  It is not uncommon to find him using his massage therapist skills to help walkers stretch and work out kinks, sometimes right on the side of the road.  That always makes for a hilarious double take when one of the Medical crews drives by!  He makes a point of getting to know new faces, making them feel welcome and sharing his story.  Whether it is 30 seconds at an intersection or 30 minutes in the dining tent, you will always feel like you’re an old friend!” – Jenn Frederick

“I don’t know a 3-Day withOUT Dan – He took me under his wing at the opening ceremony of my very first 3-Day, many many years ago.  Made me feel welcome as a rookie route safety.  And has taught me everything I know about crewing and captaining.

He is our 3-Day Dad  (I’m probably not the only one who will say this)

Best. Hugs. Ever!

Passionate.  Caring.

A mentor.  A role model.

A shoulder to cry on

A friend to laugh with

A great storyteller

Loved by MANY!” – Jeanette Jones

 

 

Introducing the 2017 Michigan Susan G. Komen 3-Day Honor Speakers

We began our 2017 Susan G. Komen 3-Day season in Michigan with an inspiring and beautiful Opening Ceremony as the sun rose above the Walled Lake Western High School. Walkers, crew members, and supporters joined their hearts and hopes in the shared promise of bringing about the end of breast cancer, one footstep at a time. In every city this year, we will be having one of our amazing participants co-host the Opening Ceremony. Take some time to get to know our Opening Ceremony speakers, who moved us to tears and action as we began our 60-mile journey.

Renee Barney – My Family

It is my honor to walk the 3-Day, and I am continually humbled and amazed at the generosity of people. This year is my tenth year walking, and all three of my daughters are participating with me because we’re fighting for a world without breast cancer. I’m Renee, and I am More Than Pink.

Nancy Sinelli – My Daughter

I am walking for my incredible daughter, Gina Guerreso, who has shown me and our family what the words courage, strength, positivity and determination truly mean. She has been an example to all of us and we will hold her in our hearts as we walk each step of this 60-mile journey. I’m Nancy, and I am More Than Pink.

Lisa Zenker – My Aunt

My sister and I started walking in 2011 because our mom fought breast cancer for 15 years. We had an amazing childhood with such great memories, but we grew up knowing breast cancer. A few months after our first 3-Day, our mom lost her battle. This 3-Day, I will walk with my Aunt Judy and Aunt Linda close to my heart. They’ve both survived breast cancer in recent years and I’m so proud of them. I’m Lisa and I am More Than Pink.

Gretchen Pitluk – My Mother

There are many reasons why I walk, but today, I have the honor of remembering my mother, Suzanne Pitluk, who passed away from breast cancer in 2011. She was a mother, sister, and many other titles, but most importantly, she was a warrior against breast cancer. This weekend, as I walk with my daughter, Mia, we will channel my mother’s passion, love, and fighting spirit. I’m Gretchen and I am More Than Pink.

Hannah Shore – My Grandmother

In 2008, my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Luckily, because of early detection, she is now a 9-year survivor. This is my first 3-Day, and I walk for both of my grandmothers. I’m Hannah and I am More Than Pink.

Kathie Lienemann – My Sister

I walk with my sister who was diagnosed at age 35, but today is a 19-year survivor. I walk because every year when I get my mammogram, I’m afraid. Afraid I’ll hear those words. I walk because it is time to end it. I’m Kathie and I am More Than Pink.

Beth Northman – Ceremony Host

I started walking in the 3-Day not knowing anyone that had been affected by breast cancer. But in the past 16 years, I’ve had eight teammates diagnosed with breast cancer, the most recent had surgery just a few months ago and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. I continue to walk for these brave women, my friends, and for all those who have battled breast cancer. I’m Beth, and I am More Than Pink.