New England Milestone Award: Mary Anne W.

Meet Mary Anne W., our 2024 New England 3-Day Milestone Award Winner!

Mary Anne has walked 22 times in 20 years, raising a lifetime total of more than $147,000. This year, she walks for her dental hygienist, Tracy, a three-year breast cancer survivor.

What was your inspiration to participate in your first Susan G. Komen 3-Day®?

A co-worker who I regularly walked with gave me the information to register.

What has brought you back to the 3-Day® year after year?

My first 3-Day walk was in 1998, and then [I] kept registering when Komen took over in 2003. I have walked at least one event each year since. The past two years, I have walked two 3-Day events and will do so this year, too. So, New England will be walk 23 of the Komen 3-Day, then later number 24 in Dallas/Fort Worth.

What is the secret to your 3-Day fundraising success?

My secret to fundraising is mailing letters that include the donation form [and] a stamped envelope to the bank starting in mid-April. I mail everyone I have ever known in my life. Yep, stamps are expensive, but my donors love getting my letters, which include a photo and story of someone I know personally who has had breast cancer. This year I am walking for Tracy, my dental hygienist. She is 51, and a 3-year survivor. My letter and a photo of Tracy are below.

“I’m on the road again this year with my 23^rd 3-Day. This time I am walking to honor Tracy, my dental hygienist and a 3-year breast cancer survivor. Here is her breast cancer story:

‘I moved from Nebraska to Arizona in June 2021 so excited to start working right away at a Prescott, AZ dental office as a Dental Hygienist. Just one month later I was diagnosed with Stage 2B breast cancer with lymph node involvement and very high in Estrogen. A lumpectomy was performed in September and a port was placed in November of that year. A/C “Red Devil” chemotherapy started in December, every other week for 2 months, followed by a less potent chemotherapy which occurred weekly for three months. I then got to take a break for a couple months to regain some strength before the Radiation Oncologist needed 15 chest x-rays and radiation continued every morning Monday through Friday for 18 weeks. Next, it was a challenge to find the right combination of hormone blockers that didn’t make my muscles and bones ache. I now get acupuncture and massages weekly to help with the neuropathy in my feet. I just recently started to feel less fatigued, now I’m able to go on walks and I hope to start a workout routine again soon.

I’m so lucky that I have a job that I was able to continue to work while going through cancer treatment.

During all my treatments my husband cooked, cleaned and shopped so I could rest, I am so lucky to have him, my family, friends and patients that have kept me positive throughout my cancer journey.’

Tracy’s journey with this disease will hopefully inspire those you know to take breast health seriously and get your annual mammograms, etc. I am hoping you will donate today to my fundraising using the enclosed donation form and envelope addressed to the lockbox in Dallas. If you prefer to donate online, go to The3Day.org, type my name and choose the donation amount.

Thank you for continuing to care about breast cancer and finding the cures.”

What is your best advice to anyone walking the 3-Day?

The event is three days of walking and meeting new faces who may wind up being a very good friend.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I am 80 years old and played competitive tennis from age 4 to 70. I have been playing pickleball since January and, with my tennis background, have picked up the sport easily. I live in a community that has many retired people who also play the game, [so I have made] lots of new friends with this sport. I have also been an active YMCA member since age 4 [and] have been married to Tom for 60 years. I do cardio classes 5 days a week, pickleball 4 days, and walk 5 miles a day.

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned on the 3-Day?

Start your fundraising as early as possible, train, and be kind always.

New England 2024 3-Day Event Recap

We kicked off the 2024 3-Day season in historic New England where members of the Pink Bubble gathered from all across the country between August 23-25 to participate in the momentous event! Together, 800 walkers and 190 crew members raised a total of $2.3 million in the fight against breast cancer.

Day 1

New England 3-Dayers entered the Pink Bubble with last year’s Rookie of the Year—Bank of America’s very own Marilyn M. kicking off the Opening Ceremony. Together, nearly 1,000 walkers and crew gathered to ring in the first day with cheers, pins, smiles, and stretches. As a reminder as to why we walk, breast cancer survivor Jessica C. shared how much disparity she’s seen throughout her treatment, proclaiming “this is a very common story… disparities in healthcare often correlate with race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status; why should I have access to care because I’m white and have access to insurance? Don’t we all deserve equal care?” She reminded us of the work that our funds do to combat these issues and passed the mic over to BB, a co-survivor who has both supported and been supported by her daughter, who is also a survivor. Larry W. then raised our Promise Flag in honor of his late wife, Theresa, and late friend Jeannie for whom he walks, in hopes that others don’t have to face what these two incredible women had to face. To kick off the journey, we invited survivors and thrivers to lead the way on the route to embark on the New England 3-Day for their first 20 miles.

Starting from the beautiful Marriott Copley Place, they paraded into Brookline and Chestnut Hill where they were met with stunning views, Boston College, and a chance to connect with one another. One walker was greeted by her three-year-old daughter who was offering everyone high-fives along the route; she has attended the 3-Day with her mother every year since she was 7 months old! They also got to experience a fun baseball themed pit stop before fueling up with a delicious lunch to continue the second half of their day. Before returning to camp, walkers passed by Boston University and MIT, Komen Grantees who continue to perform outstanding breast cancer research each day.

The Pink Bubble welcomed our Last Walker back home to enjoy the relaxing Bank of America massage chairs and a pasta and meatballs dinner before the Celebration of Champions! Bank of America rewarded our Top Fundraisers from Rookie of the Year to Top Fundraising Team with donations up to $500 for their 2025 3-Day fundraising. We also presented our Milestone Award and Crew Impact Award Winners. Additionally, Bank of America hosted a raffle where five New England 3-Day participants won $250 toward their 2025 fundraising efforts and some swag to accompany it. Our 3-Day hosts were joined on stage by Youth Corps and a few participants to learn a fun new dance (don’t worry, it could be done seated, too!). With Day 1 complete, walkers headed to bed to rest their feet for Day 2.

Day 2

The day started and ended with the sun high in the sky as well-rested walkers took to the streets of Boston at 8:00 a.m. accompanied by 2-Day Walkers. Together, they made their way through the Underground Ink Block before passing by the Old State House. They were then met by a Bank of America cheering station adorned with encouraging employees offering pink lemonade, water, candy, and lots of pink goodies like socks, headbands, and pom poms. Shortly after, they passed by Fenway Park where a lively crew of Pink Bubble supporters and walkers gathered, singing Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond.

As they continued their round of 20 miles, walkers got to see one of Komen’s grantees, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where breast cancer patients have access to more than 40 clinical trials at a time — many of which are changing the standard of care worldwide and are not available elsewhere. World class doctors at this incredible institution continue to make strides in breast cancer research including the testing of novel therapies for patients with metastatic breast cancer, making it a particularly inspiring stop along the route. With a reminder of why they walk, participants walked a few more miles before enjoying an incredible lunch to celebrate completing half of their 60-mile journey.

From here, they walked the bubbly streets toward Jamaica Pond, Sam Adams Brewery, and the Isabella Stuart Gardner Museum. With just under three miles to go, walkers were met with a Candy Land themed pit stop where the “Candy Crew” offered lollipops, hydration and smiles. Here, a family of supporters waited for over an hour to cheer on walkers as they awaited their loved ones, Heidi and Abby, a mother and daughter walking their very first 3-Day! Heidi was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2023 and decided to raise money and walk once she realized that she could make a difference. For the last three miles, her son, William, accompanied her as the rest of her family headed back to the hotel to cheer her on as she crossed the Mohawk Pink Carpet back into camp.

No Saturday would be complete without a hearty serving of mac and cheese before heading into the Honor Ceremony. Members of the Youth Corps shared their stories as they lit candles in honor of their loved ones who have been affected by breast cancer. The rest of the crowd followed their lead, placing luminaria bags in front of the stage, a beautiful tribute showcasing the friends and family members behind the “why” of our Pink Bubble family. With hearts full and feet tired, walkers and crew rested up for the final day of the New England 3-Day.

Day 3

Today began by welcoming 1-Day Walkers into the Pink Bubble during a delicious and nutritious breakfast to fuel up before heading out for the final 20 miles. With the sun shining, walkers spent the day witnessing many of Boston’s historic sites including the Freedom Trail, USS Constitution, and Bunker Hill Monument. Shortly before lunch, they were faced with a daunting staircase but our friends from XPO cheered them on with every step, giving them that extra bit of energy as they rounded the corner to rest and eat at the beautiful Marine Park. As they continued down the coast, walkers were met with a “Bugs Booby” themed Grab & Go with just two miles until the finish line!

Walkers took their final strides over the Mohawk Flooring pink carpet and picked up their New England 3-Day medal, provided by Bank of America and victory T-shirts. With tears of joy and smiles from ear-to-ear, walkers snapped some pictures at the Nature’s Bounty photobooth fully equipped with warrior wings and props—pink of course! One team crossed the finish line hand-in-hand with a happy birthday banner for their late daughter Katie who passed away from breast cancer in 2021 and would have been celebrating her 35^th birthday that day.

Our last walker, a former Youth Corps member and first-time walker, made his way in as he was cheered on by hundreds of walkers, crew, staff, and supporters. As the Closing Ceremony began, a sea of shoes were held in the air to salute our survivors and thrivers as they made their way toward the stage. Full of love, comradery, and support, it was announced that our 2024 New England 3-Day raised 2.3 million dollars in the fight against breast cancer! Walkers and crew danced to celebrate the momentous event; we can’t wait to see you back in Boston in 2025!

Were you at the New England 3-Day? What was your favorite part?

New England Route Preview 2024

We’re kicking off the 3-Day season with our New England 3-Day on August 23 in no place other than Boston! Founded in 1630, it’s one of the oldest cities in the United States and played a pivotal role in American history. It was a center of revolutionary activity, including the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Bunker Hill, key events leading up to the American Revolution. As you walk through this magnificent city, history pours from everything you pass and it’s apparent that’s what makes this city special. From its serene harbor and countless colonial monuments to some of America’s most iconic sports teams, Boston is jam-packed with sights to see. We’re excited to share with you some incredible landmarks you’re sure to encounter on your 60-mile walk during the New England 3-Day.

Day 1

The Pink Bubble will come together with a touching Opening Ceremony before heading out on the route, led by breast cancer survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer. Soon after, you’ll pass by the Citgo sign, a Boston landmark and skyline staple since its installation in 1940. Make your way through the quaint tree-lined streets of Brookline, Chestnut Hill, and Brighton as onlookers cheer you on before you come upon Boston University, a Komen Grantee in Allston. The university’s research initiatives include studying genetic and environmental risk factors, exploring novel therapies, and improving early detection methods to make breast cancer a thing of the past.

Cross over the river where you’ll find yourself in the center of Harvard Square in Cambridge. This vibrant hub located adjacent to the prestigious university is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, bookstores, and street performers. The square serves as a gathering place for students, locals, and tourists, offering a lively atmosphere that reflects the area’s academic and artistic spirit. Shortly after, you’ll pass by Harvard Yard, another iconic and historic Boston location that is surrounded by some of the university’s oldest buildings.

Keep an eye out for Graffiti Alley, a designated area where graffiti and street artists can legally express themselves. The walls are constantly changing as new artwork covers previous pieces, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving canvas, making each visit a unique experience and a perfect backdrop for some pictures with your Pink Bubble family. From here, you’ll wrap up the first day by returning to camp for a shower, delicious food, and Bank of America massage chairs before the Celebration of Champions.

Day 2

Your second day kicks off through the Underground Ink Block, a public park and urban art space located beneath the I-93 expressway in Boston’s South End neighborhood. This innovative use of space transformed a previously underutilized area into a vibrant community hub adorned with murals and walking paths. From here, find yourself traversing through Fort Point Channel and passing by The State House, one of the oldest public buildings in the United States. Originally built in 1713 as the seat of colonial government in Massachusetts, this building offers a glimpse into the rich history of Boston and the nation’s early struggles for independence.

Now it’s time to take the spirit of the Pink Bubble over to the iconic bar Cheers where “everybody knows your name,” made famous by its namesake TV show. Shortly after, you’ll be transported to a world of cheering crowds, cracking bats, and the thrill of victory that are associated with Fenway Park. Standing proudly since 1912 as home of the world-famous Boston Red Sox, this massive venue withstands the test of time as America’s oldest Major League Baseball park.

As you continue your journey, you’ll soon pass by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute where Komen-funded research is conducted. Susan G. Komen Scholar, Dr. Sara M. Tolaney spends her days here focused on developing combination therapies for metastatic breast cancer subtypes that normally do not benefit from immunotherapy. She does so by determining the impact of including a novel antibody drug conjugate to enhance the immune response. These are your funds at work!

With an extra infusion of inspiration, continue toward beautiful Jamaica Pond, a stunning 68-acre freshwater pond surrounded by lush greenery designed by Frederick Law Olmsted as part of his vision to create a green belt around the city in the late 19^th century. Still thirsty for cool Boston landmarks? Next up is a stroll past the Sam Adams Brewery where the renowned beer is brewed daily, before walking past The Gardner Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts which collectively contain over 500,000 works of art! Visit another one of Olmsted’s parks as you pass through the Back Bay Fens, originally a tidal marshland transformed into a lush oasis in the middle of the city. Wrap up your day at the 124-year-old Symphony Hall, home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and widely regarded for its exceptional acoustics. Feel the melody as you walk in your tempo back to camp for some delicious macaroni and cheese and a touching Honor Ceremony.

Day 3

The final day begins backwards, starting at the Boston Marathon Finish Line where runners have completed the historic race since 1897. Situated near Copley Square, from here you’ll make your way to the historic Boston Common and Frog Pond, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Follow the footsteps of centuries past as you explore the storied Freedom Trail that connects 16 sites which are historically significant to the American Revolution. As you walk the trail, you’ll be able to admire the USS Constitution, Old North Church, Paul Revere’s House, and more before immersing yourself in the stories of the Boston Tea Party. Friendly reminder that if you’re interested in visiting the Public Garden, be sure to schedule a trip before the 3-Day begins as it is not accessible on event.

For a touch of whimsy, make a stop at the Hood Milk Bottle, a unique landmark that is sure to bring a smile to your face as you head toward the Finish Line Festival. Continue your walk through South Boston, affectionately known as “Southie” and make a stop at the local favorite L Street Tavern made famous by the movie Good Will Hunting. Pass by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library where you can learn about JFK’s inspiring leadership.

As you complete your New England 3-Day journey through Boston, you will have experienced the city’s historical charm, vibrant neighborhoods and notable attractions. From the cobbled streets of Harvard Square to the fabled Fenway Park, each step will reveal a new facet of this captivating city. Boston’s rich backstory and warm hospitality will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of New England. While you’re out on the route this year, don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and post using the hashtag #NE3Day for a chance to be featured on our social media!