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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 35th 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 19th 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! 

What are you looking forward to experiencing most at the 2024 New England 3-Day? 

We Walked 300 Miles in 15 Days: Stories from All-City Participants

In 2023, fourteen individuals participated in all five Susan G. Komen 3-Day® walks. Week after week, they trained and fundraised to walk 300 miles over fifteen days. From the bustling streets of Boston to the sunny shores of San Diego, each participant’s journey was a testament to their dedication to ending breast cancer.  

These are some of their stories. 

Emily W. 

Emily is a breast cancer survivor, full-time working mother of three beautiful daughters, a devoted wife to her high school sweetheart, and a lover of life’s simple pleasures. From an ice-cold lemonade on the beach to hosting joy-filled game nights, she finds happiness in the company of loved ones and the warmth of shared laughter. She began walking the Komen 3-Day for others in Michigan in 2017 and continues to walk for her pink survivor sisters, for the generations to come, in honor of her own survivorship, and for Susan G. Komen’s mission to end breast cancer.  

Participating in the 3-Day® has become a cherished tradition for her, with San Diego 2023 marking her 11th event and the accomplishment of being an all-city walker. This endeavor was a dream which she had envisioned since her very first walk and a challenge she was determined to accomplish before breast reconstruction surgery she had scheduled for early winter. Each city presented its own set of highlights and challenges, but through it all, she found herself surrounded by newfound friends, sharing stories, and enveloped in the spirit of the Pink Bubble. Crossing the final finish line in San Diego filled Emily with a sense of pride and accomplishment, reaffirming her dedication to the cause. 

She found that fundraising for five events also required immense creativity and determination, which she embraced wholeheartedly. From running an at-home bakery that donated proceeds, to hosting donation-based garage sales and wine bottling parties, Emily explored various avenues to support her cause. She even involved her daughters who set up lemonade stands throughout the summer to raise money. As a seasoned 3-Day participant, Emily offers valuable advice to first-time walkers: approach the event with an open heart, embrace the unique experiences of each city, and above all, ensure you’re well-trained for the journey ahead. “But seriously, train. 60 miles is a long walk!” Since the conclusion of the 2023 3-Day season, Emily has focused on her recovery from reconstruction surgery and, despite the challenges she faces, she remains resolute in her determination to continue walking in 2024. Emily is consistently training and fundraising with the New England and San Diego 3-Days on the horizon.  

Kat C.  

Kat is a devoted wife, cat parent, and theater enthusiast whose vibrant personality and unwavering passion for all that she does shines through in every aspect of her life. Her journey through the 3-Day is fueled by the memories of her grandmother, Nell Marie Grant Haun, and her mother-in-law, Helen Lockie, who serve as a constant reminder of why she walks. Her “Pink Angels” accompany her on every step of her 15-year journey, however, Kat’s decision to participate in all five events in 2023 was driven by her desire to celebrate the people still with her, including the Pink Bubble family she has gained along the way. 

Since her inaugural 3-Day event in Arizona in 2008, Kat has participated in an impressive 22 3-Day events across various cities, including San Diego, Dallas/Fort Worth, Twin Cities, New England, Chicago, and Denver. She decided to crew in New England instead of walking, which provided her with a new perspective on the event and a newfound appreciation for the dedication of the 3-Day crew. From navigating weather-related delays to ensuring the safety and comfort of walkers, Kat’s experience behind the scenes reinforced her admiration for the tireless efforts of the event staff and volunteers. 

As a seasoned 3-Day participant, Kat emphasizes the importance of training, community engagement and strategic planning, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for the journey ahead. She suggests a myriad of fundraising methods, including personalized emails, social media campaigns, and fundraising events. Since the fulfilling moment of crossing the San Diego 3-Day finish line, Kat has focused on self-care and spending time with loved ones. She spent a pre-Christmas day with her birth family in Texas (her personal and genetic connection to breast cancer), who are an inspiration to Kat. “Playing Cards Against Humanity with three generations gets crazy. I needed that great laugh,” she shared. Looking ahead to 2024, Kat is eager to continue her journey with the 3-Day, participating in all four cities and striving to reach her fundraising goal. 

Nancy M. 

Nancy is a two-time breast cancer survivor and beach enthusiast who has walked the 3-Day 29 times since she took her first steps in the Pink Bubble in the 2008 Philadelphia 3-Day, less than two years after her initial diagnosis. She first heard of the 3-Day when her coworker drove past the camp and told her to check it out. “I went by and pulled over to the side of the road just looking at the sea of pink tents and decided the next year, I would be in one and the rest is history!” she shared.  

This past year, she crewed in New England and Chicago on the medical team, crewed a grab & go in Denver, crewed Friday and Saturday and walked Sunday in Dallas/Fort Worth with her team Pink Soles in Motion, and walked all three days in San Diego. To fundraise for these events, she got creative by hosting in-person events, helping with a yard sale, asking around at tailgates, and doing whatever else she could think of. Nancy’s advice to anyone interested in participating in the 3-Day is to just know you can do it. She has had friends give her excuses like they don’t like porta potties, or countless other reasons, for which she says — just do it anyway! After participating in all four events in 2022 and all five in 2023, Nancy looks forward to embarking on all four 3-Days this year again, crewing in New England, Denver, and Dallas/Fort Worth and walking in San Diego.  

Shirley E.  

Shirley is a 28-year breast cancer survivor who loves to lead an active lifestyle, travel, care for her husband and two cats, cook, and crochet. When not at the 3-Day she choreographs ballroom dancing with her husband, attends two weeklong dance events in the summer, and takes a hiking trip overseas at least once a year; this year she’s headed to the Azores. She began walking in the 2009 San Diego 3-Day after her niece asked her for a 3-Day donation the year prior. “I told her I would support her if she would walk again in 2009 so that I could walk with her. She did, I walked, and I haven’t stopped walking since then,” she shared. Since then, Shirley has walked 32 times, with 2023 marking her second time as an all-city walker.  

Walking 300 miles and fundraising for all five cities was a challenge that Shirley set for herself. When she finally crossed the finish line in San Diego, she was so proud of herself, emphasizing the importance of using a sweep van whenever necessary. Since then, she’s been busy crocheting for her 2024 fundraising and waiting for the weather to warm up a bit to kick off her training. 

Shirley leans on her loved ones to help her expand her network for donations and emphasizes the impact of matching gifts. Her favorite ways to raise funds include Facebook fundraisers, sending out letters to friends, and bringing her crocheted goods to craft fairs including her signature crochet critters. While she would love to do all four cities again, Shirley’s grandson is getting married the weekend of the Denver 3-Day, so she looks forward to doing it all again in New England, Dallas/Fort Worth, and San Diego this year.  

Brooke K.  

Brooke is a woman of many passions, working for an airline, teaching at a university, and helping women achieve financial independence. In addition to her many pursuits, she has participated in the 3-Day 18 times in honor of her mom Kathy, who passed away from breast cancer in 2013. “My goal was to raise $10,000 for her 10-year anniversary and walking all 5 cities felt like the right way to honor her,” she shared. Brooke began walking in 2014 and found that being an all-city walker was empowering and therapeutic as she got to experience each unique city and meet countless new friends. 

For Brooke, the toughest challenge was meeting the fundraising deadlines, but she and her teammates kept each other on track. She raised the $10,000 through many creative means, including cleaning toilets and baseboards, taking surveys online, selling Dippin’ Dots, working at concession stands, collecting coins off the ground, scanning receipts, selling pretzels at Oktoberfest, driving friends to the airport, washing cars, matching gifts, and participating in research studies. Her biggest fundraising advice for any 3-Dayer is to join a team to ensure that you have support and opportunities to be a part of larger fundraising events. She also encourages every first-time walker to never give up and to reach out to 3-Day veterans and your coaches for any assistance and advice.  

Since crossing the finish line with her partner Tim in San Diego, Brooke has been fundraising and gearing up for the 2024 walks, where she will be an all-city walker once more. Her team Pink Soles in Motion has already held a fundraiser where they raised over $11,000 and have been doing training walks and challenges to keep moving forward.  

These All-City participants are incredible, and it takes tremendous commitment, but any way you choose to participate makes a difference. Thank you for being part of the 3-Day!