The Unforgettable San Diego 3-Day: Rain, Resilience and a Rainbow

A powerful rainstorm reshaped the Susan G. Komen San Diego 3-Day this past weekend, but it never shook the resilience of the Pink Bubble. What began as a hopeful 60-mile journey became something extraordinary: a moving demonstration of grit, teamwork and the unbreakable spirit of a community determined to help end breast cancer.

Even as plans changed and harsh weather swept in, the heart of the 3-Day community never faltered. If anything, it shone brighter.

Day 1: Gray Skies, Bright Spirits

3-Day Opening Ceremony at Del Mar Fairgrounds

Under gray clouds at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, a sea of pink-clad walkers gathered for the Opening Ceremony dressed in pink T-shirts, tutus, hats and all the creativity the Pink Bubble is known for. Survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer proudly led the way as the Youth Corps lined the start with pink pom-poms, smiles and endless high-fives.

Walkers made their way along Del Mar Dog Beach, where the sun peeked out through the cloud cover. In Del Mar Village, businesses, residents and cheerleaders from Torrey Pines High School filled the streets with music, a pink balloon arch, snacks and heartfelt encouragement.

Supporters in Del Mar Village at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

At the first Pit Stop, walkers enjoyed fruit, popcorn, string cheese and Ready protein bars before heading toward the serene shoreline of Torrey Pines State Beach. There, walkers were greeted by artwork created in the sand, including the breast cancer ribbon, a flower, hearts and the words hope, brave, love and don’t give up. It set the tone for the entire weekend.

Youth Corps walking alongside the sand art at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

Route-side cheer stations handed out pickles, candies, Kleenex and moral support. Sweep vans were available for those who needed a lift up the hill alongside Torrey Pines. Members of the San Diego Police Department bike team stayed close, keeping walkers safe while blasting music from their bikes.

Walkers going up a hill at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day near Torrey Pines State Beach.

When walkers made their way down to La Jolla Shores, sprinkles started to fall but not enough to dampen any spirits. Hundreds of pelicans were quite the sight near La Jolla Children’s Pool, where many 3-Dayers stopped to take photos of them along the cliffside. By Friday afternoon, more light rain started to fall as walkers traveled through Pacific Beach and back to Crown Point Shores Park for dinner and much-needed massage chairs.

Capt. Vernon Peterson of the San Diego Police Department leading the Wobble.

That night the Celebration of Champions, sponsored by national presenting sponsor Bank of America, recognized top fundraisers and teams, along with the youngest crew members and fundraisers from the Youth Corps. The evening ended with dozens of walkers, volunteers, crew, Youth Corps and members of the San Diego Police Department dancing to the Wobble, led by Capt. Vernon Peterson, a beloved 14-year Pink Bubble supporter who shared that this would be his last 3-Day before retiring.

Day 2: When the Storm Tested Everyone

The rainstorm on Saturday at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

Saturday started with rain and only got wetter. Walkers stepped out along Mission Beach’s South Cove in pink ponchos, raincoats and plastic shoe coverings, but it wasn’t long before shoes and socks were soaked through. The coastal neighborhood of Ocean Beach brought ankle-deep flooding, forcing walkers to wade through cold water as they powered through with unstoppable determination. Despite the pouring down rain, walkers made their way slow, steady and strong up the challenge of Narragansett Hill.

Music along the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

By mile four, conditions worsened, and flooding required part of the route to close. Sweep vans gently gathered walkers, some reluctant to stop, but the mood was filled with gratitude for Komen staff making tough, safety-first decisions.

Walkers were dropped safely back on the route near Dog Beach, where supporters braved the rain to hand out warm chili, pickle juice, water and well wishes to 3-Dayers who were focused on not letting the rain get in their way. Even the Hau’oli Strummers San Diego Ukelele Club played through the drizzle.

Walkers in the rain at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

Despite being drenched, cold and exhausted, walkers pushed through strong winds and rain through Pacific Beach and along Sail Bay, holding onto ponchos as gusts tried to rip them away. Memorial Mile, set up along the last mile into camp at Crown Point Shores, offered a powerful pause and bittersweet reminder of the loved ones honored through every 3-Day mile.

Memorial Mile at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

By late afternoon, the storm intensified. Flooding forced camp to close, and many were relocated to nearby hotels and the local YMCA. Even with disrupted plans and a cancelled Honor Ceremony, the Pink Bubble community remained patient, understanding and unwavering in its purpose.

At the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay where many walkers stayed, the 3-Day Medical Crew provided care for achy joints, blistered toes and weary feet to walkers who trudged through several miles in the storm. That night, the ballroom filled with tired but smiling walkers sharing pizza, music, warmth and gratitude for one another.

As the rain continued, the exhaustion was undeniable but so was the determination to finish strong.

Day 3: Sunshine, Support and the Rainbow We All Needed

After an exhausting second day, you’d think 3-Dayers walkers would have felt defeated, but instead they emerged more focused than ever. The route was shortened and delayed for safety, but the sun finally broke through as walkers set off from Crown Point Beach.

Walkers along Sail Bay at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

Along the Mission Beach Boardwalk, supporters, neighbors and businesses lined the way with cheers, signs and thanks for braving the storm. Employees at SeaWorld San Diego handed out water, snacks and provided a dolphin-themed photo op for walkers.

Those who missed Memorial Mile due to the weather were able to experience it again near Mission Bay Park—a quiet, heartfelt space before the final push.

A rainbow at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

Then, as walkers crossed the bridge toward the last mile leading back to Crown Point Shores, something beautiful emerged: a double rainbow arched over the bay that, to many walkers, signified hope after hardship, welcoming them to the Finish Line.

The Closing Ceremony, which had to be moved from Waterfront Park due to flooding, was held back at Crown Point.

Despite everything Mother Nature threw at them, walkers gathered one last time and celebrated raising $6.5 million, from more than 1,900 walkers and 330 crew, in the fight to end breast cancer forever. There were tears, cheers and an overwhelming sense that this this year’s San Diego 3-Day will be remembered for decades.

Closing Ceremony at the 2025 San Diego 3-Day.

It wasn’t the 60 miles anyone expected. But it was a moment in 3-Day history that none of us will ever forget.

With Heartfelt Gratitude

To everyone who walked, cheered, crewed, fundraised, supported, adapted and stayed patient through all the pivots: thank you. Your strength and kindness carried this 3-Day through the storm, and your commitment brought us to that rainbow at the finish line.

We can’t wait to see what San Diego brings next year. Rain or shine, the Pink Bubble will be there.

The final day of the San Diego 3-Day

Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day: A Little Rain, a Lot of Heart

Women in pink cowboy hats at the 2025 Dallas/Fort Worth Komen 3-Day

The Susan G. Komen 3-Day® filled the streets of Dallas and Fort Worth this past weekend. Even when the rain rolled in and led to some minor scheduling adjustments, the Pink Bubble’s spirit remained strong. Together, 800 walkers and crew celebrated raising $2.1 million to support Komen’s vision to end breast cancer forever.

Day 1

Bud C. spoke at the Opening Ceremony at the 2025 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day.

At the Opening Ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Dallas, participants shared deeply personal stories and their connection to the Pink Bubble community. Bud C. spoke about his wife Julie’s journey with triple negative breast cancer. “Now, five years cancer-free, Julie and I decided there was no better way to celebrate than in the Pink Bubble.”

In a touching moment, Nelia S., who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, rang the bell for her first time. “When I finished treatment, I never rang the bell,” she said. “But today, I ring the bell for everyone who been impacted by breast cancer.”

Nelia rang the bell at the 2025 Susan G. Komen Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day.

The Promise Flag was raised in memory of Jess, who died from breast cancer in 2021, just before her 48th birthday. Her teenage son walked the 3-Day for his first time. “Jess believed deeply in Susan G. Komen’s commitment to research. She understood that new treatments meant more time, and Komen-funded research gave her some of that precious time,” said her friend Kim. G. “For that, we’re forever grateful.”

Survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer then led walkers out to the route, spreading Pink Bubble magic through the Government District, Deep Ellum and the Hollywood/Santa Monica neighborhood of east Dallas.

Pink Bubble walkers were cheered on by Bank of America employees at the Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day.

That evening, the Celebration of Champions, sponsored by national presenting sponsor Bank of America, recognized top fundraisers and teams, along with the youngest crew members and fundraisers from the Youth Corps.

Day 2

Pink Bubble walkers at Fort Worth Gardens during the 2025 Susan G. Komen 3-Day.

Saturday brought stormy weather and a few route adjustments to ensure the safety of walkers, crew and volunteers. Buses took walkers to the beautiful city of Fort Worth, where they explored the vibrant Fort Worth Water Gardens, the JFK Tribute and Veteran’s Memorial Park, which is dedicated to the heroes of World Wars I and II. Some walkers even got a little wet.

Although the route closed early due to rain, participants’ enthusiasm never wavered.

Selfies at the 2025 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day

Cecilia, a 3-Day walker and breast cancer survivor, walked 11 miles and said the day was awesome: “Everyone loved walking Fort Worth, even with the shortened route.”

Back at the hotel, walkers had the chance to visit the beloved Memorial Mile, honoring loved ones who lost their lives to breast cancer.

Memorial Mile at the 2025 Dallas/Fort Worth Komen 3-Day.

At the Honor Ceremony that evening, Patti R. spoke about her sister, Kathryn, who had breast cancer twice and passed away in May. “She went through so much in her lifetime, but she never let it define her,” Patti shared. “Most of the time, she faced it with a smile. When I think of Kathryn, three words come to mind: love, strength, and courage.”

Kamilah G. paid tribute to her mom, Zetta, who was diagnosed with breast cancer three times. “My mom was a teacher by trade, a nurturer by heart, and a fighter by necessity,” she said. “Her love was bold, her wisdom sweet like honey, her faith unshakable.”

After the heartfelt speeches, participants lit a candle as a sign of hope and recited together: “We will never give up.”

Participants lit candles at the 2025 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day Honor Ceremony.

Day 3

By Sunday, the rain had passed making way for walkers to enjoy a full final day of the Pink Bubble journey. Walkers enjoyed a scenic walk through Turtle Creek Park, by the Dallas Museum of Art and some even paused for puppy cuddles and photos at Pit Stop 3, which featured adoptable pit bulls. Members of the Dallas Police Department even walked the last mile of the route to show their support for Susan G. Komen®.

Members of the Dallas Police Department at the 2025 Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day.

At the Closing Ceremony, 11 people were welcomed into the Lifetime Commitment Club after raising over $100,000 each to benefit the 3-Day. The Last Walker Flag was raised, and walkers and their families celebrated through tears and lifted their shoes in honor of every survivor and thriver who made the 3-Day journey unforgettable.

On the final day of the 3-Day in Dallas, walkers lift their shoes in solidarity.

As the weekend came to a close, the streets of Dallas were filled with gratitude and hope. Each dollar raised and each story shared moves the 3-Day community one step closer to a world without breast cancer.

Embracing the Pink Bubble in the Midst of Grief

Erin P. walks the 3-Day for her mother, Bernadette.

This year, Erin P. experienced the kind of heartbreak most people can’t imagine —losing both of her parents just seven weeks apart. Her father passed away first, following years of health challenges, including cancer. Her mother, Bernadette, a two-time breast cancer survivor, died shortly after.

In the midst of navigating her grief, Erin came across the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® and felt inspired to participate for the first time as a way to honor her mother’s strength and resilience amid the relentlessness of breast cancer.

“My parents were fighters. They really were,” Erin said, tears falling from her eyes. “When I saw something about the 3-Day right after my mom died, I knew I wanted to do it.”

Breast Cancer

Bernadette died from metastatic breast cancer

To understand what led Erin to the 3-Day, you have to go back to 2017. That’s when Bernadette was first diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer. She underwent a lumpectomy, followed by radiation therapy and oral chemotherapy medication.

“After that, the doctors told my mom she was cancer-free, so we marched on with our lives and everything was going so well,” Erin recalled.

Bernadette and her husband

During that time, Erin gave birth to her son, Thomas. He was her parents’ only grandson. But in 2021, Bernadette was diagnosed again, this time with stage 3 triple negative breast cancer. The treatment was grueling. Bernadette had a double mastectomy, more chemotherapy and another bout of radiation therapy which caused a painful wound.

“The burn on her chest from the radiation started off as the size of a quarter, and it kept getting bigger,” Erin explained. “My dad had to do wound care for her, and she later needed a skin graft surgery.”

Despite the physical toll, Erin and her parents moved from New York to Florida to be closer to her sister, who had recently gotten engaged. Erin said for a while, her mom seemed to be doing better. After completing treatment, her scans showed no signs of breast cancer.

Bernadette and her husband In October 2023, Erin’s parents celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary, a milestone that reflected decades of devotion, love and shared medical challenges.

But their joy was short-lived. Soon after, Bernadette received more devastating news. Her breast cancer returned and had metastasized to her bones. Despite the diagnosis, Bernadette was able to spend two more holiday seasons with her family, as well as be at her daughter, Tara’s, wedding.

Erin P. and her family celebrating Christmas before her parents died. But earlier this year, both Bernadette and her husband’s health declined, and they were hospitalized at separate times. Erin and her sister were there for each of them. In a final, tender moment, Bernadette had the chance to say goodbye to her husband before he passed away. She followed seven weeks later.

The 3-Day

The weeks that followed were filled with heavy grief for Erin, but also reflection. She organized a beautiful memorial service where she handed out pink breast cancer awareness ribbons in honor of her mom.

First-time walker Erin P. at the Denver 3-Day.

Then a few months later, she boarded a plane from Florida to the Denver 3-Day.

“I went to the 3-Day with minimal expectations, no training. I just wanted to honor my mom, and my dad too,” Erin said. “I took the extra pink ribbons I had from the memorial, and I gave them to the volunteers, crew and walkers and I told them about my mom.”

Despite a foot injury that prevented her from walking the full route, Erin was determined to finish. She walked as much as she could, and when she reached the final stretch, her son and husband were waiting to cheer her on.

“I really wanted to make sure I finished for my mom.,” she said, “I took my son’s hand, and we crossed the finish line together. It was beautiful. I was so emotional thinking about my mom and my dad and everybody who has gone through breast cancer.”

Erin P. was honored at the Denver 3-Day Celebration of Champions.

To Erin’s surprise, she was honored with the “Best Tug Your Heartstrings Story” award at the Denver 3-Day Celebration of Champions. She’s already fundraising and preparing to walk again, this time at the Tampa Bay 3-Day in 2027.

“The Pink Bubble was overwhelming in the best way,” Erin said. “I got so many hugs from strangers who are part of this big, beautiful community. I’m just so glad I jumped into the 3-Day when I needed it most.”

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Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.