Cindy’s 3-Day Milestone: A Decade of Remembrance

Cindy del Rocco and her sons at Memorial Mile at the San Diego 3-Day

This year marked a bittersweet milestone for Cindy D.—10 years of walking in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® and 10 years since losing her mother to breast cancer. For Cindy, the 3-Day is more than a fundraising walk; it’s a tribute and a way to stand up against what she calls “the beast.”

Cindy completed her first 3-Day in 2009, in honor of a friend diagnosed with breast cancer at just 42. Back then, when people asked if breast cancer ran in her family, she always answered no.

But that changed in 2015. On her parents’ 55th wedding anniversary, Cindy’s mother received the devastating news that she had metastatic breast cancer (MBC), which is the most advanced stage of the disease. The diagnosis came a little over a year after her last mammogram.

Cindy del Rocco family with her mom who died from breast cancer

“The beast had found my mom. She didn’t deserve this,” Cindy recalled. “She had dense breast tissue, and it likely wasn’t detected.”

Just five months later, on Thanksgiving morning, Cindy’s mother passed away.

This November marked 10 years since her mother’s passing, and Cindy says she misses her every day. Her mom had always been her biggest supporter, especially when it came to the 3-Day. This year, Cindy’s three sons joined her at the San Diego 3-Day to walk in their grandmother’s honor.

Cindy del Rocco and her sons at the San Diego 3-day.

“I know she and I are both so proud of these young men for stepping up to make a difference,” Cindy said.

Even after a decade of participation in the 3-Day, Cindy returns home from each event feeling the same overwhelming sense of joy. And this year was even more memorable with her sons by her side.

“The love, support and kindness from walkers, crew, police and the community — especially here in San Diego — are incredible,” Cindy added. “It’s so inspiring to be surrounded by people who may not know each other but share one mission: to end breast cancer.”

Cindy says in the future she hopes to walk the 3-Day with her granddaughter, Ella.

Cindy Del Rocco and her sons and granddaughter at the San Diego 3-Day

To learn more about the Komen 3-Day, visit the3day.org.

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.

San Diego Milestone Award Winners: Lindsey and Caryn

At this season’s Susan G. Komen San Diego 3-Day®, a standout mother-daughter duo was honored with the 2025 Milestone Award, which recognizes participants whose fundraising achievements and long-term commitment have made a powerful impact.

Lindsey B. and her mom, Caryn F., completed 43 3-Day events and raised more than $330,000 in support of Komen’s vision to end breast cancer forever. As co-captains of Team Ta-Ta’s from KC, formed in 2005, they’ve become anchors in the 3-Day community. Lindsey also serves on the Komen 3-Day Advisory Council and first walked in honor of her aunt who had breast cancer.

Lindsey and Caryn received the Milestone Award during the San Diego 3-Day’s Celebration of Champions, where their close friend, Betsy S., delivered a heartfelt tribute to their nearly two decades of dedication to the 3-Day. Betsy first met Lindsey in 2005 when they shared a tent at the 3-Day. Caryn joined the team the following year.

“This dynamic duo has been inseparable in their training, their fundraising and their unwavering dedication to this cause,” Betsy shared. “They bring courage, grit and grace to every mile, walking for the countless women and families who benefit from their education.”

Each May, Lindsey and Caryn kick off their annual 3-Day fundraising with an elaborate dinner event. “Their efforts are awe-inspiring—not powered by corporate sponsors, but by a vast network of friends, school PTAs, church communities and countless others who believe in them and in this mission,” Betsy said. “Their success is built on heart, hard work and connection.”

Over the years, the Ta–Ta’s from KC team has raised nearly $863,000, earning the Small But Mighty award in 2023 and a spot among the Top 10 teams in 2022.

Team Ta-Ta’s from KC

“I really want to emphasize Lindsey’s absolute commitment to being our captain in every sense of the word,” Betsy added. “Even as a busy mom of three, she informs us, motivates us, leads us and delights us. And she learned that from her mom.”

Congratulations, Lindsey and Caryn! Thank you for showing us all what it means to walk with heart, purpose and dedication.

San Diego Crew Impact Winner: Heather G.

Heather G. at the Celebration of Champions being honored for the San Diego Crew Impact Award.

At last week’s Susan G. Komen San Diego 3-Day®, we were excited to present Heather G. with the Crew Impact Award, recognizing her commitment to lead and serve in the Pink Bubble community.

Heather joined the 3-Day in 2001, walking in honor of her mother, and has since raised nearly $31,000. During the Celebration of Champions ceremony, her friend Davida T. spoke about their years of crewing together at the 3-Day.

“Heather has this rare gift where she makes everyone around her feel seen, valued and special,” Davida shared. “Even when the work was long and demanding, Heather’s joy, calm and leadership made every moment feel meaningful.”

“Because of our Momma, we were welcomed into the Pink Bubble and taught the importance of community and service. She’s been a role model, showing us how to fight for what’s right, how to keep the memory of our MeeMaw alive, and how to lead with love. We love you, Momma.”

Heather G. at the Celebration of Champions being honored for the San Diego Crew Impact Award.

Heather often shares the story of her mom placing little green toy soldiers around whenever she needed strength to keep going. After her mother passed, Heather found a tiny green soldier on the ground at an event. No one claimed it, and she knew it was a sign from her mom. Heather has carried that little green soldier to every event ever since — a symbol of love, courage and connection.

“Heather, you are that little green soldier in your mom’s story,” Davida said. “Through your kindness, strength and love, you’ve built an entire army around you, people who crew beside you, lead because of you and carry your spirit forward in every step.”

Congratulations, Heather! You are a wonderful example of service and kindness, and we are so grateful for your strength and your endless pink spirit!