A First-Timer’s Journey with the Komen 3-Day

Every year, new participants join the Susan G. Komen 3-Day®, and for many, it becomes more than just a breast cancer walk – it’s an unforgettable experience. Some spend months fundraising and training, while others join at the 11th hour. Regardless of when they begin, each participant quickly realizes the 3-Day is about much more than walking, it’s about being a part of a community dedicated to ending breast cancer. 

Kimian Benitez is one of those new participants. She took part in her first 3-Day last fall in San Diego and walked the event solo.  

“I was the team captain of myself,” she joked. “I always wanted to do it and I am so glad I did.” 

The night before the event, Kimian and her husband drove to San Diego, and the next morning she began her 3-Day journey. After six miles, Kimian, who was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, found herself needing to take a break. 

Kimian Benitez at the 2024 San Diego 3-Day

“I was disappointed when I got on the sweep van that took me back to the hotel, but everyone made me feel like I did great,” she recalled. “The Pink Bubble they talk about is such a positive and embracing atmosphere.” 

The 3-Day’s unique and supportive environment is what keeps people like Kimian coming back. She already has plans on walking in this year’s San Diego 3-Day and is determined to walk farther than she did the first time.  

“I don’t know anyone or have anyone close to me who has gone through breast cancer, but how I think about it is the money I raised and the effort I put in could go toward finding the cure, whether for me, tomorrow, or for someone I know and love,” Kimian said. 

To learn more about the 3-Day or to register for an event, 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.

Join Us for a 3-Day Journey to Help End Breast Cancer

Each year, the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® events bring together thousands of passionate people united by one powerful mission: a world without breast cancer, for this generation and the next. 

Over the course of three unforgettable days, participants walk up to 60 miles, and share stories of remembrance, survival and hope, after months of dedicated fundraising to reach their goals.  

The Komen 3-Day events, held in Denver (Aug. 1-3), New England (Aug. 15-17), Dallas/Fort Worth (Oct.24-26) and San Diego (Nov. 14-16) are more than just walks – they are transformative journeys that begin the moment you register 

A dedicated coach will guide and support you as your train for your walk, mentor you through your fundraising efforts and keep you motivated every step of the way. The 3-Day is also more inclusive than ever, offering three distance options. While many choose the full three days and 60 miles, others choose the 1-Day (20 miles) or 2-Day (40 miles) options. 

The 3-Day “Pink Bubble” community is made up of walkers, crew members and volunteers, all bonded over the same purpose of ending breast cancer forever. Throughout the event, you’ll have the chance to form lifelong connections and experience powerful moments, like the touching Honor Ceremony. 

The Opening Ceremony sets the stage for the 3-Day. You’ll feel the passion and dedication that fuels our cause, and as you walk, you’ll see beautifully curated pink outfits that tell the stories of survivors and honor loved ones. The Pink Bubble atmosphere is filled with positivity, hope and unwavering support. 

Nikki participated in her first 3-Day in Dallas in 2022 after completing treatment for breast and ovarian cancer and was blown away by the support of the community.I love the Pink Bubble and all that it means,” she said. That year, we walked through east Dallas, which is where I live. We walked by the lake where I cried after my diagnosis. We walked past the facility where I was diagnosed with cancer, the hospital where I had my surgery and my oncologist’s office. I finally got to give myself the closure I needed. I walked past all those places that were connected to so much sadness and was able to create a happy memory and celebrate all that I’ve been able to do. 

It’s an experience you’ll never forget. Along the 3-Day route, you’ll encounter people who’ll make you laugh, cry and motivate you to keep going. By the time you reach the Closing Ceremony, you’ll be overwhelmed with a deep sense of gratitude and hope for the future.  

Since it began in 2003, the Komen 3-Day series has united more than 500,000 participants and raised more than $915 million to support cutting-edge research, improved access to care and advocacy efforts to amplify the voice of the breast cancer community. 

So, are you ready to take the first step? Register today! We’d love to have you join us at one of our 3-Day events. 

Visit the 3-Day to learn more.  

November Pink Bubble Story of the Month: Lauren M.

“My mom was more than her diagnosis; she was a beacon of strength, love, and compassion to everyone who knew her.  

“At just 34 years old, she discovered a small lump during a self-examination and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite the fear and uncertainty, she faced her mastectomy and six months of chemotherapy with courage, all while caring for my 6-year-old sister and me, a 2½-year-old, and supporting my dad. Her strength and resilience saw her through, and after treatment, she was declared cancer-free and entered remission. 

“True to her giving nature, once she regained her strength, my mom began volunteering at Victory in the Valley in Wichita, Kansas, helping other women navigate their own battles with breast cancer. However, in her fourth year of remission, the devastating news came: her cancer had returned. 

“For five more years, my mom faced this relentless disease with grace, undergoing six different treatment protocols. She lost her hair and nails, but never her spirit. Even as a nurse, fully aware of the uphill battle she faced, she focused on teaching my sister and me about life, ensuring that we felt as normal and loved as possible despite her struggle. 

“On November 2, 2000, at just 44 years old, my mom passed away. While she is no longer with us physically, her legacy of strength, kindness, and unwavering love lives on through my sister and me. We strive every day to carry forward the values she instilled in us, honoring the extraordinary woman who taught us what it means to live fully, love deeply, and persevere through even the most difficult challenges.”  

“My friend, Sonia, is a survivor. She asked me to join her in this experience and I couldn’t be more grateful to have walked alongside her and our incredible team, STEPS. Being surrounded by such inspirational people—men and women who have given years of their lives to this cause—was deeply moving. Walking alongside people who were on their 36th walk or were tackling all four events this year was remarkable. It left me feeling like I’ll never be able to let a year go by without being involved in some way. Whether walking, cheering, or volunteering, I know I want to be part of this incredible community. Seeing the strength and resilience of the survivors and hearing their stories made a profound impact on my heart. Their courage is something I’ll carry with me always.” 

—Lauren M., first-time 3-Dayer