Tag Archives: Personal Story

My Story – Gwen A. Shares Why She Commits to the 3-Day 

Hi, my name is Gwen and I want to share the reasons I’m walking in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day in San Diego this November. 

My friend Linda formed a team to support her sister-in-law, Tracy, after she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She invited me and numerous other friends to join her. I said yes! 

I had been toying with the idea of either walking the Susan G. Komen 3-Day in Denver or San Diego this year but hadn’t committed yet. Linda’s invitation helped me decide! 

I walked the AVON 39 breast cancer walk in September of 2016 in Santa Barbara. It was an incredible experience! I walked in honor of the many women in my family and life that have had breast cancer. My grandmother Veronica and my aunt Terrie were both diagnosed in their 30’s and lost their lives to breast cancer in their late 40’s. My aunt Patty, aunt Rosie, cousin Yvette and friends Marla and Lee are all survivors!  

I asked two friends to join me on the AVON 39 walk. We trained diligently and were able to meet our fundraising goals. We stayed in a hotel and ate dinner at fun restaurants. It was a wonderful weekend. But I was truly amazed at how life changing the actual walk was for me. I met so many wonderful people while walking mile after mile. I heard their stories of loss, love and hope. We walked on September 11th. It was such an inspiring place to be 15 years after such a tragic day in our country’s history. I was touched by how hundreds of strangers were brought together to give hope to those fighting breast cancer and to honor those who lost their battles. 

Two years after walking AVON 39 in 2016, my friend Carrie invited me and many of her friends to participate in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day in Atlanta. I said yes, again. We trained and fundraised successfully. The experience was fabulous! We were a group of eight women, many whom had walked in previous Susan G. Komen 3-Days. Again, I was in awe of the people participating in the walk. I listened to my fellow walkers’ stories and became connected to these people whom I had just met. I was blown away by the support from volunteers and the people who cheered for us along the way. Another incredible experience! 

In 2019, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. She completed all her treatment and is enjoying life as a soon-to-be survivor. In 2025 she will be an official survivor! 

In 2020, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The pet scan revealed a suspicious spot on my breast, and in 2021 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I, too, have completed my treatment. My mom and I both take daily medication to prevent recurrence. I am in remission and look forward to 2027 when I will be an official survivor! 

My multiple myeloma is also in remission but is not curable. Thankfully it is treatable, and I tolerate the monthly treatments well. 

I am walking for many reasons. First and foremost, to honor all the women I know who have battled this disease including myself. Although some have gone down, we are all warriors! Second, to raise funds for breast cancer awareness programs and research. Third, to connect with the other walkers and volunteers. The walk is a truly hopeful and joyful experience. 

As a past walker, I know the time, effort and diligence it takes to be successful. Starting now is the best way to achieve those goals. “A little progress everyday adds up to big results!” 

You can read more inspiring stories about members of the Pink Bubble on the 3-Day Blog.  

A 10-Year Anniversary and a New Goal: Brooke K.’s Story

Traveling to the continental United States from Hawaii for each Susan G. Komen 3-Day she’s participated in, Brooke K.’s dedication to the cause cannot be denied. Having walked 11 3-Days and been a part of the 3-Day crew twice, Brooke is taking on 2023 with a personal fundraising goal higher than she’s ever had before.  

How did you first hear about the 3-Day? 

I first heard about the 3-Day when I lived in Fort Worth in 2014. I saw a few posters and figured 60 miles would be a fun challenge. I attended a “Get Started” meeting and signed up the next day. I was really pumped when I received my first donation of $7.00! 

What is your connection to breast cancer? 

My mom, Kathy, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999. I was 11 at the time and my sisters were only 5 and 14. She had a mastectomy, followed by chemo. Life continued and cancer eventually became too normal in our household. Her cancer returned in her lung in 2005. She spent many years fighting but passed away in 2013. I have since met far too many friends who have been diagnosed with breast cancer as well.  

How many 3-Day events have you participated in? 

I have participated in 13 3-Day events. I have walked in 11 events including Dallas/Fort Worth, San Diego, Twin Cities, and Seattle. I also crewed twice in Dallas/Fort Worth. I plan to participate in multiple cities in 2023! 

What was your first 3-Day experience like, and how has your 3-Day experience changed over the years?  

My first 3-Day was powerful. I felt comfort from people I had never met. The opportunity to share my heartbreak that year was therapeutic. I loved it so much that I signed up for two walks the following year. My boyfriend, Tim, joined me a year later and continues to walk with me now. My older sister also walked with me one year. It was a bonding moment for us as we walked in my mom’s honor.  

Why do you participate in the 3-Day year after year?  

As time goes on, the memories of my mom sadly keep fading. The 3-Day is a time for me to take a step back and think about her. I talk about her. I cry about her. I put on my pink for her. I participate so we can find the cures so that other people don’t have to navigate life without their mom. My mom missed some amazing moments in her daughters’ lives. She missed graduations, marriage proposals and the birth of her grandkids. If walking in the 3-Day helps prevent memories from being missed, I am all in.  

What do you think the benefits of being on a team are? 

I am on an amazing team called Pink Soles in Motion. Our team consists of men and women passionate about fighting cancer. We have collectively raised over $2 million! I joined the team my second year participating in the 3-Day and have made some lifelong friendships. I have benefitted from fundraising opportunities, training encouragement and support. Our team walks in all the cities the 3-Day is in, and we welcome new members. Life is better with breast friends by your side!   

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

2023 will mark the 10-year anniversary of my mom passing away from breast cancer. I am committed to going big this year and raising $10,000 in her honor. If you are thinking about not walking this year, we need you. If you haven’t walked before, I’ll help you. We must find the cures! This quote sums up what this cause means to me: “My mom taught me everything…except how to live without her.”