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.
The 2024 3-Day will take you on an unforgettable journey through Dallas/Fort Worth’s most iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems. Jump into those cowboy boots and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and captivating sights of the Lone Star State!
Day 1
After an inspiring Opening Ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Dallas you’ll head out on the route, which takes you past the Giant Eyeball, an unexpected and quirky art installation that is sure to leave you amazed. This incredible work of art will stare back at you as you make your way through the city! Measuring about 30-feet in height, the massive structure of fiberglass and stainless steel embodies the city’s eclectic art scene.
Venture toward the T. Boone Pickens Cancer Center and take a glimpse into the groundbreaking medical advancements achieved at this prominent cancer treatment and research facility. You’ll also be greeted by the Baylor University Medical Center where breast cancer detection, treatment and clinical trials occur each day. Next, we’ll bring the Pink Bubble over a few miles to the Swiss Avenue Historic District, a residential neighborhood in East Dallas. Its eclectic mix of homes, spanning a 2.5-mile stretch, represents virtually every popular residential design style of the day, including Mediterranean, Spanish, Spanish Revival, Georgian, Mission, Prairie, Craftsman, Neoclassical, Italian Renaissance, Tudor and Colonial Revival. Originally ideated by Robert S. Munger in the late 19th century, this area has evolved from one man’s unique experiment in planned urban development to a living testament to America’s architectural diversity. Snap a photo in front of The Langford and Aldredge Houses, which are both significant homes known for their architectural beauty and rich historical value. Built in 1930 and 1917, these are beloved and well-preserved pieces of architecture boasting Colonial Revival and Georgian Revival styles.
With cheering stations to keep you motivated, spend a few miles walking along White Rock Lake, a popular urban park and reservoir located northeast of downtown Dallas. Witness The Pump Station, originally built in the 20th century, that has since been decommissioned as a functioning water facility and now stands proudly as a preserved structure that is part of the scenic attractions around the lake. Snap a photo in front of the man-made White Rock Lake waterfall and enjoy the peaceful sound of flowing water before passing through the Willis C. Winters Park Trailhead, a well-known access point of the lake area.
After connecting with nature surrounding the lake and nearby areas such as the Historic Deep Ellum District, you’ll return to Downtown Dallas where 49 bronze longhorn steers and three cowboys sit on horseback in a 4.2-acre green space known as the beautiful Cattle Drive Sculptures. Created by artist Robert Summers, these sculptures celebrate the cattle drives that were crucial to the city’s economic history in the 19th century. Before returning to camp, you’ll pass by one more symbolic sculpture called The Pegasus, which has been part of the city’s skyline for nearly 100 years. Return to camp at the Hyatt Regency Dallas for an exciting Celebration of Champions and rest those feet for Day 2!
Day 2
On the second day, a bus ride will take you into Fort Worth to dive into the city’s western heritage and cowboy culture. Established as an army outpost in the mid-19th century, this metropolis boasts a wealth of history and architecture at every corner. Shortly after starting out on the route, you’ll pass by the UT Southwestern Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at Moncrief Cancer Institute where Isaac Chan, M.D., Ph.D. accompanied by graduate student Isabella Terrazas, was awarded the 2024-2025 Susan G. Komen ASPIRE Grant to promote inclusion in research. They are investigating the role of a type of immune cells called natural killer cells during immunotherapy treatment. Furthering our understanding of natural killer cells may pave the way for developing new breast cancer immunotherapies that target natural killer cells.
Continue by walking through the Fort Worth Water Gardens, a stunning urban oasis with serene pools and cascading waterfalls. Feeling refreshed? Head to Sundance Square, a vibrant entertainment district buzzing with restaurants, shops, and cultural events for visitors and locals alike. For a taste of the Wild West, venture toward the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame where the spirit of the cowgirl mirrors that of the Pink Bubble. This renowned museum is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the achievements of women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, resilience, and trailblazing spirit. Continue your journey through Fort Worth feeling enriched and empowered by the courage of these pioneer women. Mosey on over to the Cultural District, where you’ll encounter a dazzling display of urban artistry like the playful Raining Tacos Mural which will undoubtedly add a splash of color to your day.
Pass through Veteran’s Memorial Park, established in 1923 to honor U.S. military veterans, before strolling past Texas Christian University. This campus not only has a nationally recognized football team but a strong school spirit and a supportive community that is perfect for the 3-Day! Finally, wrap up Day 2 in the Fairmount-Southside Historic District where you’ll see the M.A. Benton House, one of the oldest homes in Fort Worth. Built in 1898, this Victorian-style cottage embodies southern values as it remains well-preserved and proudly owned by descendants of the Benton family. From here, a bus will take you back to our 3-Day camp at the Hyatt Regency Dallas for a touching Honor Ceremony before resting up for the last leg of the 3-Day.
Day 3
Begin your final day by leaving our hotel campsite for Dealey Plaza, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993 as part of the Dealey Plaza Historic District. Known as the “birthplace of Dallas,” this unassuming brick-paved square has borne witness to many pivotal moments in Dallas and American history. As you walk by, you may notice an “X” painted on Elm Street denoting where John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, a permanent memorial to the 35th President. As you honor the lost president, continue toward the House of Blues, a well-known live music venue and restaurant located in the heart of downtown. Part of the larger House of Blues chain, which is recognized for hosting a variety of music genres, with a focus on blues, rock, and soul, this location also incorporates elements of Southern culture and cuisine. With music running through your veins, continue toward Turtle Creek Park, home of the Kalita Humphreys Theater, a historically preserved theater that has been hosting performances since its opening in 1959.
Don’t miss the vibrant Oak Lawn Rainbow Road, home to the Pay It No Mind mural, a powerful tribute to the LGBTQ+ community. In true Pink Bubble spirit, the message of inclusivity and acceptance radiates from this colorful art installation. Walk with pride as you continue toward Southern Methodist University where you’ll walk past Gerald J. Ford Stadium and Turpin Stadium, home of the Mustangs. With a hearty helping of Texas sports culture, you’ll soon approach Cole Park which offers a serene green space perfect for relaxation and fresh air. Make your way toward the Dallas Museum of Art before you wrap up your day in the heart of downtown Dallas at the AT&T Discovery District. Covering several blocks near the AT&T headquarters, the company created this immersive entertainment and retail destination to showcase their latest technology, products, and services. Take out that smartphone and capture a few photos before making your way to the Finish Line Festival.
One of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, Reunion Tower, will be the backdrop for our Closing Ceremony. “The Ball,” as it is affectionately known by locals, has been a staple of the Dallas skyline since 1978. With 259 exterior LED lights, there is truly no better location for you to shine after completing the Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day.
Are you walking the Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day? Let us know what you’re looking forward to the most.
In 2008, Rae J.’s sorority sister-turned-best friend, Terry H., signed up for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® after seeing an advertisement on TV. Although she didn’t know anyone at the time who had been affected by breast cancer besides Rae’s mom, a 16-year survivor, Terry knew right away that she wanted to walk. She began raising money and recruiting others to join, but it wasn’t easy. “It was very intimidating to have to raise $2,300; asking people for money was new. It was even more intimidating when I explained we had to walk 60 miles; in fact, people said I was crazy,” she shared.
Ultimately, Terry raised the money and walked solo in D.C., crying at times when she found herself alone. However, in true Pink Bubble fashion, Terry made new connections and was so inspired that upon returning home she talked her friends into signing up, Rae included. In 2009, Team Keeping Abreast was born with five walkers and three crew members, including Terry’s dad and his wife, Terry and Rae’s husbands, Chris and Bob, Terry’s niece, her niece’s roommate, and Rae’s sister-in-law. That year, they began carrying a banner with them for each walk where they encouraged other participants to write the names of survivors and those who have been affected by breast cancer.
“We kept our traditions going from year to year: the banner, wearing team shirts on day three, holding up our fists in team pictures, and a shoe circle. The young girls in our team video are all now walkers who, back then, couldn’t wait to be able to participate. Rae’s daughters were first in 2016, when Cameron joined as a walker and Caroline joined the Youth Corps until she was old enough to walk. Next were Rae’s nieces, Abbey and Melanie who joined Youth Corps and are now walkers.”
Team Keeping Abreast walked every year until the Komen 3-Day was no longer offered in D.C. when they decided to crew in Philadelphia. Unsure of how to raise money and afford travel, they missed the following two years. Over time, they kept learning of more and more people who had been diagnosed and when Rae was diagnosed in December 2015, their team got their walking shoes back out and returned to Philadelphia in 2016. That year, they recruited another one of their sorority sisters from Sigma Sigma Sigma, Stacey and Rae’s sister, Dawn. “We walked again and that was the first time she was able to easily convince me to walk with them,” shared Dawn.
In 2016, Rae walked her sixth and final 3-Day® as a Stage IV breast cancer thriver. She gave a speech at the Opening Ceremony, saying “I have walked the 3-Day five times in honor of my mom, a breast cancer survivor and in memory of those we have lost. Who would have thought it would happen to me? Yet here I am having been diagnosed this past December with Stage IV breast cancer. So, this year, I’m also walking for myself and continue to look for the cures so my daughters don’t have to walk for the very same reason. I’m Rae, and I am the 3-Day.”
Rae was beloved by her friends and family and loved the 3-Day more than anything else. Her friends describe her as:
Funny — she loved to laugh, always had a smile
She was the life of the party, the last one to go to bed and the first one up in the morning
She made friends everywhere and kept in touch with all of them
She was an active member of the Sigma Sigma Sigma (Tri Sigs) sorority both as an undergraduate and alumna
She played the trombone in her high school and college marching bands
She had a passion for tennis and enjoyed playing in multiple leagues and tournaments
She knew the words and dances to every song from John Denver to Kid Rock to Run DMC
She was a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers
She was an accountant by trade but focused on family and friends
She loved holidays and events, including Halloween, the 3-Day, St Patrick’s Day, Christmas, and Easter — all the holidays were so celebrated, and she decked everything out accordingly
She loved getting ready for the 3-Day — the pinker the better!
We could pick up and go anywhere or we could sit on the couch for the entire weekend
She was very passionate about all things in her life
She was a fantastic mother, wife, friend, sister, aunt and daughter
She was a wonderful everything
“Rae fought until the very end. I went to chemo with her on September 27, 2017 and she passed away two days later on September 29, 2017,” shared Terry. “Throughout that year, as Rae’s condition worsened, we didn’t know if we were going to be able to do the walk. The short plan was that the team would still walk, Bob and Chris would crew, I would stay with Rae, and we would possibly drive from their new home in Arizona to San Diego and cheer on the walkers. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it that far but after Rae passed away, we all got ready for San Diego. It was the weekend before Thanksgiving, so we did the walk, and we all spent the holiday together that year. It was good for closure, actually.”
In 2019, Rae’s daughter Cameron spoke at the Opening Ceremony as a tribute to her mother and her husband Chris walked for the very first time. “It was the last walk Rae walked, and I wanted to walk in her footsteps. I did all 60 miles, no sweeping. It was a great healing event,” he shared. Each year since her passing, the team walks with Rae’s shoes attached to their backpacks and their banner adorned with a photo of her for all 60 miles. Since then, three teammates including Rae’s sister Dawn have been diagnosed and are survivors whose names are proudly written on the banner.
This year, Team Keeping Abreast joined together to participate in the 2024 Denver 3-Day, wearing matching jerseys as they crossed the finish line on the seven-year anniversary of Rae’s passing. As they set out on the route for Day 3, a route safety crew member was singing Good Morning, Good Morning, a song that Rae was known for singing each day. The team walked past in awe and, after reflecting, turned around to ask him for a video. Though her two daughters, Cameron and Caroline, couldn’t make it, they spent the day together and were overcome with emotion seeing the video of the crew member singing their mother’s song.
“From there, the story is pretty clear,” shared Terry, the team captain and Rae’s best friend. “We will forever be 3-Dayers. I promised Rae I would continue until there are cures, like many others scorned by the disease.”
