Meet Ali P., our 2024 New England Crew Impact Award Winner!
Since her first Susan G. Komen 3-Day® 16 years ago as a member of the Youth Corps, Ali has participated 18 times and has raised a lifetime total of nearly $14,000. To this day, she plays an imperative role in keeping the program afloat and thriving.
“Ali has always embodied the Komen 3-Day to me. She is an incredibly dedicated leader, teacher, and, most importantly, friend. If it weren’t for her hard work, organization, and advocacy, the Youth Corps would not look like it does. As one of the founding members of the Youth Corps when she was a young girl herself, to the repeat leader she has become, Ali has always made sure the Youth Corps mission is a success.” —Bailey M.
What was your inspiration to do your first 3-Day®?
My mom had walked the 3-Day for years with her sister, Rose, who was battling breast cancer. At the time, I was very young, but I got to see my mom and aunt at camp (back when camp was outside, moved each night, and was open to friends and family), and at the Closing Ceremony; I immediately knew I wanted to get involved and support the cause. A few years later, the Youth Corps started here in Boston, and I jumped at the chance to join the team. It was one of the best experiences ever, and one that I will never forget.
What has brought you back to the 3-Day year after year?
The 3-Day is an amazing event that supports an extremely important cause that is near and dear to my heart. While I initially joined the 3-Day to support my aunt Rose’s battle and triumph over breast cancer, after my first event in New England 2006, I was hooked. I made so many new friends that quickly became family to me, and I looked forward to joining forces with them each year in the fight against breast cancer.
However, in 2012 my world was rocked, reminding me how cruel this disease is when my grandmother Rosemarie, my mom Cathy, and my Aunt Joanne were all diagnosed with breast cancer. Within a six-month span, three more women on my mom’s side of the family had breast cancer. It was then that I vowed to participate in the 3-Day until we find the cures and there is no need for the walk anymore.
What is your favorite aspect of crewing the 3-Day?
My favorite aspect of crewing the 3-Day is the Youth Corps. Maybe I’m biased because I was a member as a kid and have been a Youth Corps leader 12 times, but seeing the smile they bring to walkers is special. Outside of the Youth Corps, it’s being able to help and support others on event. I know firsthand that walking 60 miles is no easy feat, so being there for others in any way I can is extremely rewarding.
What is your best advice to anyone crewing the 3-Day?
Talk to everyone, and I mean everyone! Listen to their stories, share yours, make new friends. Smile at someone, say hi, give them a high five — even the smallest actions make a world of difference. And most importantly, enjoy every moment and have fun! Don’t get too caught up in your task that you forget why you are there.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I have run eight marathons, six in the United States, one in London, one in Germany, and have individually raised over $50,000 while doing so. My goal is to complete all of the world’s major marathons, and I am only one marathon away from doing so.
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?
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, an opportunity to commemorate the history and achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. AAPI month is a time to speak out against hate, share stories of achievement and hardship, and debunk myths about Asian communities, including breast cancer discrepancies. Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate, and it touches the lives of people from all walks of life, including Asian American and Pacific Islanders.
However, the experiences and challenges faced by AAPI women in dealing with breast cancer can be unique, influenced by cultural factors, access to healthcare, and societal expectations. Generally, Asian American and Pacific Islander women are less likely than non-Hispanic white women to be diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer that hasn’t spread to the lymph nodes. This is likely because Asian American women have lower rates of screening mammography compared to Black women, white women and Hispanic women, likely due to cultural barriers. These include cultural beliefs and language barriers which can impact understanding and access to healthcare services, further complicating the journey for AAPI women facing breast cancer.
Though rates of breast cancer incidence and mortality are generally lower for AAPI women than for non-Hispanic white women and non-Hispanic Black women, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Asian American women following lung cancer. As of January 2020 (most recent data available), there were about 160,000 non-Hispanic Asian and Pacific Islander women in the U.S. who were breast cancer survivors or were living with breast cancer. Incidence has increased slightly from 2015 to 2019 by about 1.5% each year, likely because the daughters and granddaughters of immigrants adopt American lifestyle behaviors which may include behaviors that increase breast cancer risk, such as alcohol use, being overweight, or having children later in life. For that reason, over time, breast cancer incidence rates for the daughters and granddaughters of immigrants may become closer to incidence rates in the U.S.
For immigrants, navigating the complex healthcare system in a new country can be daunting, leading to even more delay to prescreening. Moreover, factors such as socioeconomic status, immigration status, and geographic location can influence access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Despite these challenges, AAPI women are breaking barriers and advocating for themselves and others facing breast cancer. Community organizations and support groups are emerging to provide culturally sensitive resources and support which play a crucial role in raising awareness, providing education about breast health, and advocating for better access to healthcare services throughout their community. At the Susan G. Komen 3-Day®, we continue to fight for equity amongst all cultural groups and encourage an open dialogue to destigmatize conversations about breast cancer. Through these efforts, we can empower AAPI women to seek timely medical care and support and get closer to ending breast cancer at every step.
