Congratulations to our Top Fundraisers from the 2023 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day!

The 2023 Susan G. Komen Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day boasted 600 walkers and 200 crew members who collectively raised $2 million in the fight against breast cancer. To wrap up Day 1, our top fundraisers were recognized Friday evening at the Bank of America Celebration of Champions. This year, Bank of America is celebrating the accomplishments of our 3-Dayers by donating a collective $42,000 to the top fundraisers to jump start their 2024 fundraising efforts. Join us in congratulating these teams and individuals for their incredible achievements and contributions!

We kicked off the celebration by recognizing our Rookie of the Year, Nicole A., who raised $17,284 for her first ever 3-Day! The crowd applauded her incredible contributions as she posed for a picture with Bank of America’s very own Kim Hamstead who delivered a $500 donation to kick off her 2024 fundraising.

Bouncin’ Buckeyes was then awarded our Small but Mighty Team award after their two-person team raised a whopping $80,234, demonstrating that anything is possible with enough perseverance. Team Captain Rachel B. was awarded a $500 donation and her fellow teammate received $60 to kick-start their 2024 fundraising. Rachel individually contributed an astounding $75,111, making her this weekend’s Top Individual Fundraiser for which she was awarded another $500 donation courtesy of Bank of America. Speaking of tenacity in fundraising, our Top Fundraising 20-Mile Walker, Barbara B., raised $15,389 for her very first 3-Day!

Our Top Fundraising Team, STEPS, was recognized for the $172,014 that all 73 members came together to raise. Team Captains Sheryl C. and Dana B. humbly accepted their $500 donation from Bank of America and their 71 teammates were each awarded $60 toward their 2024 fundraising. In their fourteen years as a team, STEPS has raised a tremendous $1,598,641 to help find the cures for breast cancer. With 73 members strong, you’d think that STEPS is the largest team, but Pink Soles in Motion boasted 97 members. Together, they raised $155,890, making them the second highest fundraising team at the 2023 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day. Thank you, teams!

We can’t forget about our crew members who collectively raised $61,245 in the Lonestar State! From Sweep & Shuttle, our Top Individual Crew Fundraiser, Fee P., was honored for the $5,139 she raised this year at her 18^th event. The Sweep & Shuttle Crew Team not only brought our Top Individual Crew Fundraiser, but also rang in as the Top Fundraising Crew Team with 20 members who came together to raise $18,160!

We then honored our youngest fundraisers from the Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day Youth Corps, who altogether raised $7,641! Chance J. participated in his very first 3-Day and raised $1,189, making him this event’s Top Youth Corps Fundraiser. Chance will be receiving a customized Hydro Flask courtesy of Bank of America which he can use with pride. We are so grateful for and proud of our Youth Corps who continually remind us of the future we fundraise to improve.

Whether you were a top fundraiser or hit your own fundraising goals for the 2023 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day, the work that you do and the funds that you raise are ever important. We are so grateful to each and every one of you for making the Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day so memorable and impactful. On behalf of Bank of America and Susan G. Komen, thank you for all that you do to help fight breast cancer.

Explore the Dallas/Fort Worth Route Before the 3-Day!

The 2023 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

No visit to Dallas would be complete without a walk through Dealey Plaza, where your day begins with a visit to the JFK Memorial. Designed by architect Philip Johnson and completed in 1970, this solemn site invites contemplation and remembrance. The monument’s open-roof structure resembles an open casket, symbolizing the freedom of Kennedy’s spirit as his legacy lives on.

From here, venture toward the Cultural District, home to the renowned Dallas Museum of Art. This hub of creativity and artistic expression will surely inspire you as you continue your adventure with the fabulous Pink Bubble. Make your way to Turtle Creek Park, named after the meandering Turtle Creek, which runs through its grounds. Characterized by its lush green spaces, walking paths, and well-maintained gardens, this park offers an escape from the surrounding urban area.

Don’t miss the vibrant Oak Lawn Rainbow Road, home to the “Pay It No Mind” mural, a powerful tribute to the LGBTQ+ community. Sashay away with the message of inclusivity and acceptance that radiates from this colorful art installation. Walk with pride as you continue to the upscale area of Highland Park and admire the Southern charm of this charismatic neighborhood. As you proceed on the route, Cole Park offers a serene green space perfect for relaxation and fresh air.

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 resting up for Day 2!

Day 2

On the second day, a short bus ride will take you into the neighboring area of 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. Walk through the Fairmount-Southside Historic District before passing 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. Look for the playful “Raining Tacos” and mesmerizing Rainbow Tunnel murals which will undoubtedly add a splash of color to your day.

Pass through the historic suburban neighborhoods of Sunset Heights and Tanglewood 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 Ryan Place where you’ll witness the unique charm of the area where some of the homes date back to the early 1900s. Return to 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 Dallas Hyatt Regency for a touching Honor Ceremony before resting up for the last leg of the 3-Day.

Day 3

Begin your final day by paying homage to Texas’ cowboy heritage at the Pioneer Plaza’s Longhorn Cattle Sculptures, a magnificent bronze tribute to the culture that’s shaped the Lone Star state. Continue walking toward the dynamic and lively neighborhood of Deep Ellum which maintains a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. This revitalized area retains its historic charm while celebrating modern creativity, music, and culture. Soak up the sights and sounds before heading toward White Rock Lake where its picturesque boathouse provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable photo.

Venture toward the T. Boone Pickens Cancer Center and take a glimpse into the groundbreaking medical advancements achieved on these grounds. This prominent cancer treatment and research facility located in Dallas will remind you of exactly why you walk as you complete the closing portion of the 3-Day. As you make your way through downtown Dallas, prepare to be captivated by 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.

Finally, make your way to one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city and let the Reunion Tower be the backdrop for your Closing Ceremony. As it is affectionately known by locals, “The Ball” 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.

Meet Team Independent: A Family Affair on the Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day

The 3-Day becomes like a family for many in our community, bringing people from all walks of life together in the fight for a world without breast cancer. Some even bring their own personal family and friends along with them to the 3-Day. When the 3-Day family becomes one with your own, magical and amazing memories are made.

If you need any inspiration to invite your family to join your 3-Day team this year, you can look no further than Melissa L. and Team Independent in Dallas/Fort Worth. Their team of family members and supporters is the perfect example of incorporating your own motivation and family love into your 3-Day journey.

Everyone from her daughter Alex and her husband David to nieces, her sister-in-law, and her nephew have all joined Melissa on Team Independent over the years. In fact, Alex has continued to walk while attending college, graduate school, and having multiple children. Melissa’s nephew Becket was a Youth Corps member who is looking forward to walking his first 3-Day this year. To say the 3-Day has become a family affair for Melissa is quite the understatement!

After years of walking and crewing with her family, Melissa is full of tips, tricks and memories to help you make the most of your own 3-Day experience. Whether you walk with friends, family or solo, she is a well of information. We’ll let her take it from here…

How did you first find your way to the 3-Day family?

I initially heard about the 3-Day back in 2004 on a radio commercial. I was five years from my diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer and my daughter Alex was in high school then.

However, we didn’t fully jump into the Pink Bubble until 2007. Alex was in college and my husband was our “walker stalker.” My husband is an avid cyclist and saw the Route Safety Crew riding their bikes, which got him interested. He jumped onto Route Safety in 2008! He enjoyed being part of the crew and couldn’t understand why I hadn’t joined the 3-Day crew yet, too. So, in 2010, I joined him on Route Safety with the provision that he would walk with us in 2011. I have to say that Route Safety was great fun, but it was so much harder than being a walker for me! So, David walked in 2011 for the first time and he has been a walker ever since!

We always walk in Dallas/Fort Worth. We love supporting our hometown and hosting out-of-town team members!

What are your tips for walking and participating with your own family?

Know everyone’s pace and capabilities and use the buddy system with teenagers. Empower everyone to stick to their pace and avoid injury both on training walks and on the event.
At the 3-Day, make a schedule to meet for meals or activities, so more experienced walkers can help and encourage the new walkers.
Make fun shirts and pink bling! Matchy-matchy is the way to go! Be “family proud.” ?
Train together. Training walks are a great way to unplug and spend time together. It’s amazing how much you can learn about nieces and nephews when you leave electronics at home!

What are some of your best memories from the 3-Day?

Being a long-term part of the 3-Day family, I was asked to speak at the camp show in 2017 and David also spoke at the Opening Ceremony that year. We were both proud to take an active role in sharing our story with our pink family.

Then in 2018, my husband and I walked with our daughter and teenage nieces. Our nephew was on Youth Corps in the same year. It was great to experience the 3-Day through their fresh eyes. We held up on Day 3 so we could all cross the finish line together! We were so proud of those teenagers!

That year was eventful, too! In 2018 we were evacuated from camp because of a severe thunderstorm. Since David and I are avid backpackers, we secured our tent before vacating and after the storms passed, we jumped back in our tent and it was warm and dry. It was seriously so impressive to watch the Susan G. Komen and event staff manage the crew and walkers to keep us safe and then to get us back to sleep before we had to walk on Day 3. Well done everyone!

In general, though, the best memories come from the friends we have made walking thousands of miles on training walks and on event.

What does “commitment” mean to you?

Commitment means standing strong with our pink family of survivors, co-survivors and the loving and dedicated family and friends of those who continue to fight for those we have lost. Commitment means no matter what else life brings our way — death of parents, serious illnesses, welcoming our son-in-law and then welcoming grandsons — we keep putting one foot in front of the other and we keep raising awareness and money to find the CURE!

What are your 2020 3-Day plans?

2020 once again finds David and I walking in Dallas/Fort Worth. Our daughter, Alex, will be a 20-mile walker as she will be giving birth to her second son before the event this year! Our nephew Beckett will be a first-time 3-Day walker this year and our youngest twin nephews are going to apply for Youth Corps! I’ve challenged myself to raise $12,000 this year. It’s a personal bold goal, but I think I can do it! Nothing can stop us!

You can join Melissa and Team Independent in Dallas/Fort Worth in November, or the rest of our 3-Day family at our other 2020 cities by signing up on our website!