When Kristi T. heard about the Susan G. Komen 3-Day®, she was in treatment for metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and searching for community.
“I thought it would be cool to walk with others who were going through a similar situation as I was, or who had a loved one or friend with a similar diagnosis,” she said.
Diagnosed in 2021 at just 37, Kristi was navigating life as a single mom while undergoing an intense treatment plan that included chemotherapy, monthly injections of pertuzumab and trastuzumab, and targeted therapies for HER2-positive MBC.
Despite everything her body was going through, Kristi was drawn to the idea of the 3-Day and wanted to be surrounded by others who understood the realities of breast cancer.
Stepping Into the 3-Day
Kristi signed up as a solo walker for the 2023 San Diego 3-Day and was asked to share her story as a guest speaker. She said she felt support every step of the way. Kristi joined other participants in Central Oregon for training walks and started building connections before the event. Once she got to San Diego, those connections grew even more.
“There were teams that I kind of clung to,” Kristi said. “I started out with some of the women from Central Oregon, but as the weekend unfolded, I met so many other amazing people.”
Initially, the thought of walking 60 miles was intimidating to Kristi, especially while undergoing treatment. She had recently started taking chemotherapy pills that caused pain and sensitivity in her hands and feet.
But her fears eased after she reached out to her 3-Day coach, who explained that sweep vans, pit stops and medical crews would be available throughout the route.
“She told me I didn’t have to walk the full 20 miles a day, and knowing there were options helped calm my nerves a lot,” Kristi said.
Another challenging aspect was the 3-Day fundraising. To help reach her goal, Kristi leaned on creativity. With help from her friends and co-workers, she hosted a Barbie-themed fashion show fundraiser, complete with Barbie and Ken outfits strutting down the runway.
“A lot of people donated, and I felt really lucky to have that support,” she said.
When the first day of the event arrived, Kristi was up for the challenge.
On Day 1, adrenaline carried Kristi forward. She said she felt “amped.” By Day 2, exhaustion and foot pain set in, but the 3-Day medical crew stepped in, wrapping her feet and bandaging her toes so she could keep going.
“They did a great job of taking care of me,” she said.
On the final stretch of the 3-Day, another surge of adrenaline kicked in.
“You’re like, ‘Okay, this is the last of it—we’re hitting the finish line,” Kristi said. “I knew my parents were going to be there; my sister and my son were waiting for me, too.”
Crossing the finish line was an emotional moment for her.
“Finishing the 3-Day gave me a new appreciation for my body—I felt more confident again,” she said.
Looking Ahead with Hope
Today, Kristi’s cancer has remained stable through daily medication and monthly bone infusions. In April 2025, she got married and said she lives each day with gratitude and optimism.
“I’ve accepted that I will have breast cancer for the rest of my life,” she said. “But seeing people with MBC who have been living with it for over 20 years is hopeful and empowering.”
Kristi said she hopes to walk the Boston 3-Day soon with her sister. To read more about Kristi’s story, visit komen.org.
