November Pink Bubble Story of the Month – Debra E.

Every year, thousands of philanthropic individuals come together in cities across the country to walk 20, 40, or 60 miles, united by a common goal—making a significant impact in the fight against breast cancer. Amongst those in the ocean of pink this year was Debra E., a breast cancer survivor who participated in her first ever 3-Day this year in Denver, both as a crew member and 1-Day walker. We met with Debra who shared her personal journey, reflecting on how this experience deeply touched her heart.

Last year, Debra heard about the 3-Day on a Facebook post which prompted her to become involved with Susan G. Komen both locally and with the 3-Day. Inspired by her own survivorship, her grandmother and several close friends who have battled breast cancer, she decided to participate in the 2022 Susan G. Komen Denver More Than Pink Walk. Having loved her experience at that event, she signed up for the 3-Day to further contribute to the cause.

As a first-time 3-Dayer and combination crew member and walker, Debra was unsure of what to expect, but was blown away by her experience. She was able to make friends with both crew and walkers, so while walking on Day 3, crew members that she met in days prior were cheering her on along the route and at the finish line. Recounting her first-time laying eyes on the sea of people who were all there to support survivors, thrivers, and those walking for loved ones that could not, the feeling was indescribable. “Everyone had a smile and supportive words, and it was so infectious,” she shared. “Walking was a very supportive experience. Even when I struggled because I had a knee injury, I was still getting encouragement and support from everyone in the Pink Bubble!”

Participating in the 3-Day necessitates both physical and mental preparation. To adequately prepare for the monumental event, Debra took advice that veteran walkers shared on the Facebook pages and during the online Social Hours. She went on training walks and fundraised through social media and by emailing everyone she could think of.

Debra recalls her favorite moments of the Denver 3-Day meeting the incredible walkers and crew members, and that seeing her loved ones as she crossed the finish line was particularly humbling. Her advice to anyone who is hesitant to sign up is “Just do it! It may sound very daunting, but I expect that you will get caught up in the excitement and won’t even notice the miles go by.” Having loved her experience at the 3-Day, Debra has signed up to crew/walk the 2024 Denver and crew San Diego 3-Day.

It’s people like Debra who make the 3-Day possible and such a rewarding experience. It is about so much more than walking, but coming together to do something challenging as we raise funds to advance breast cancer research, treatment, and awareness. In Debra’s very own words, “We [walk to] raise money so that we can eradicate breast cancer FOREVER!”

See previous Pink Bubble Story of the Month blog posts here.

October Pink Bubble Story of the Month — Sandra G.

Sandra’s journey with the Susan G. Komen 3-Day began in the bustling streets of Manhattan, with a simple yet powerful step. While in remission from breast cancer, she was walking a 5K and found herself yearning to make a more profound impact. It was at this event when Sandra met a man whose wife was walking the same 5K while in the midst of her battle with breast cancer. Noting her own health and this woman’s bravery, Sandra began researching what more she could do, when she stumbled upon the 3-Day.

With a clean bill of health, Sandra registered to embark on her 3-Day adventure in 2020, which was unfortunately delayed due to COVID-19. The following year, she found herself with a Stage IV breast cancer diagnosis and ended up participating in her first walk while fighting the disease. For the past three years, her motivation to continue walking has been deeply rooted in the incredible community support and the substantial funds she and her team have raised. As she faces the challenges of Stage IV breast cancer, Sandra remains steadfast in her resolve to participate in the 3-Day, not only to raise funds for herself but to stand alongside others who share her experience. With each step, she strives to make a difference that extends beyond her own story, so that future generations don’t have to endure the tumultuous path she has endured. This year, she’s taking her mission to the Pacific coast as she walks in San Diego, continuing once again on the path of hope and healing.

Among the myriad of memories Sandra cherishes from her past 3-Day walks, one stands out as a testament to the remarkable connections forged during this saga. Two years ago, she found herself climbing a challenging hill, her determination slightly waning. However, a fellow walker approached her and struck up a conversation, asking about her story. Their interaction and shared purpose propelled her to conquer that hill, proving the incredible power of human connection in overcoming obstacles.

Sandra’s commitment to raising funds for breast cancer research is unwavering, fueled by her personal experiences. As she puts it, “no mother, daughter, son, husband, etc., should ever have to go through what I have been through,” referencing the years of chemotherapy, radiation, and emotional toll the battle has put on her and her loved ones. Her conviction is a driving force that motivates her to push her limits and inspires others to join her cause.

When asked about the best piece of advice she’d ever received regarding the 3-Day, Sandra emphasized the importance of taking care of one’s feet by wearing proper shoes. It’s’ a simple yet crucial reminder that speaks to the physical demands of the event (and a great opportunity to buy a cute pair of sneakers).

For those who are contemplating joining the 3-Day but have yet to take that leap, Sandra offers a message of hope and reassurance: “It is an inspiration and, in the end, not as hard as it seems. The cause is worth it.” Her words echo her own experience, showing that the path to making a difference is accessible to all who are willing to embark on it. While hard, she notes that walking 60 miles is not as hard as what she has been through in her fight against breast cancer. She wants to show people it can be done, and that walking is worth the effort to find the cures.

In closing, Sandra reflects on her extraordinary journey, one that began amidst challenges and uncertainty. Her inaugural walk, postponed due to the pandemic and undertaken after her Stage IV diagnosis, stands as a testament to her unwavering spirit and determination. With a sense of pride and hope, Sandra reveals that, in just three years, her efforts have contributed to raising around $100,000—a sum that serves as a beacon of hope for the future. As she continues her journey with the 3-Day, Sandra’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the phenomenal impact that one person’s dedication and determination can have on a cause that touches so many lives.

My Village: The Difference Between Surviving and Being a Survivor

By Emily H.

This is my version of Emeril’s ?BAM!” I have never loved my kitchen more than I do now! It is wallpapered with cards from friends near and far who are supporting me along my breast cancer journey. It started with the first card I received that reads, ?Today’s showers bring tomorrow’s blooms.” I taped it right above my kitchen sink, somewhere I visit often, so I would see it over and over again, reminding myself this is only a part of my story. As more and more cards came in the mail I wanted a way to keep all those positive thoughts front and center. Away it grew to my whole kitchen! Words do not do my feelings justice. I have always known I had good friends and family, but when I needed them the most, they all showed up. I am both thankful and very blessed to have a village this strong! It has truly been the difference between surviving and being a Survivor.

Community by definition is a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. To me, community is an evenly balanced group of people who share passion for the same thing. Our 3-Day community is made of all types of beings (men, women, children, and pets) who share one common goal: to spread the Pink Bubble love. We all come to the table with different goals, some want to raise money, some just want to find a cure, some need support, and some just like to walk. But all in all we are a group of people (a community) that wants the world to be a little more pink. My community support means so much that without it I would fail. I know that no matter what challenge I am faced with I can turn to that community and someone will rise to the occasion and help me succeed.

My 3-Day journey began five years ago when I registered to walk in celebration of my mother-in-law, Lori, who had just fought her own battle with breast cancer. I quickly found a passion for FUN-raising and was able to arrive to camp a Top 10 fundraiser my first year. I fell in love with the ?Pink Bubble” and all the people who make the 3-Day happen. There were so many stories, so many hugs, and so many reasons to keep coming back. I brought my mother-in-law and sister-in-law, Heather, along with me for walk two and then a best friend, Rachelle, for year three. 2020 was our ?year off” as I call it, and I was aiming high for 2021. I wanted to reach $20,000 in lifetime donations for my five-year anniversary. And I did!

But as 2021 began I was given a new challenge, being diagnosed with breast cancer myself. My diagnosis came as a huge shock as I do not hit very many risk factors. I am only 29, had all my kids young, breastfed all my babies, no family history, and am generally in good health. But as we all know cancer does not discriminate. One more reason to keep on walking. I look forward to being reunited with my ?Pink Bubble” family in the future and know that my journey as a survivor is just beginning.

If I could only share one thing with the 3-Day family it would be don’t give up! Keep on fighting, fundraising, and spreading the Pink Bubble love. The past few years have been tough on everyone for different reasons. We all learned things and took the time to grow in personal ways. But overall as a society, I think we discovered we could all use a little work! So don’t give up and keep on fighting, for yourself, your mission, and anything and everything that brings you joy! You all bring me joy and I am so thankful.