My goal for 2023 is to find a cure for breast cancer. No, I am not a doctor or a scientist. I am a 21 year breast cancer survivor who lives in a world where people are diagnosed with this disease all too often. 1 in 8 women will have breast cancer in their lifetime.

Donations to non-profits were down due to the pandemic. It is time we turn that around. I am planning to walk the Denver, Dallas and San Diego Susan G. Komen 3Day events in 2023. In order to do this, I must raise $6,900 plus the cost of flights and hotels. In return I promise to train the 500 mile schedule and complete the 60 miles in 3 days times 3 = 180 miles.

It may sound crazy to some, but I gain a lot from the weekends spent with my team STEPS friends walking the miles it takes to get ready for this challenge. They motivate me and inspire me to continue. Over the 23 previous events and the 12 years I have been involved, I have made friends with survivors, co survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer. I have also lost some very dear friends to the disease.

Each time I meet someone in my life who has conquered the disease multiple times, I ask myself how I would be if my cancer returned. Would I be ready to fight again, or would I give up? I genuinely believe in the value of Komen education and research. I believe they want to find a cure. I believe that until they do, they want to allow those who are diagnosed to live as long and full a life as possible.

I am ready and willing to walk and talk for those who cannot. To raise such a large amount of dollars, I have to speak up and talk loudly.

Please donate today and encourage anyone you know who has been impacted by breast cancer to donate. Or just donate because you are impressed by the challenge I am taking on. It does not matter your why…just understand mine.

In 2023 I want to find a cure for breast cancer. Take the journey with me by walking or donating. I thank you and those who are surviving will thank you.

Every step we take has a story. This is my story and I will continue to tell it until I can no longer take steps.

Dana