We have all been touched by cancer in some way. It doesn’t discriminate. Race, age, man/woman/child, cancer doesn’t care. 

For those of you who have known me for any period of time, you know my story. I’m a proud breast cancer survivor of almost 30 years. My journey with breast cancer changed my life (for good.) Not everyone has the same fortune. 

Last year, my brother Doug and his wife Karen walked with me in Boston. It was each of their 2nd, 3-Day walks. Our brother Bob, joined us as a crew member, volunteering each day at lunch, setting by up, serving the walkers and breaking it all down. It was special spending time together like that as adults.

My roommate in 2024 was an 80 year-old woman who I had met the year prior from Arizona. Mary Anne has walked in many more three days than me, however she has never been diagnosed with cancer. She walks in the Komen 3-Day each year in honor or memory of someone she has met during the year. In 2024, Mary Anne walked in 2 of the 4 Komen 3-Days. Oh, and after the Walk in Boston, she suffered a pretty serious medical emergency when she arrived home. That didn’t slow her down she spent a month recovering and rebuilding and then participated in the Dallas 60 mile walk.

I love the Susan G Komen 3-Day walk and plan to continue walking as long as I can. Marianne is certainly a mentor in that way in showing it’s possible. 

I recently learned that a new friend who is 81 years old has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She begins her treatment on Friday, January 10th. She’s a tough cookie and I hope and pray she will do well. She has loads of support and good healthcare. Not everyone has those luxuries and it is for them and my newly diagnosed friend who I will walk for in 2025.

I would be Incredibly grateful if you would consider making a gift of any size in honor or memory of a loved one, who has faced a diagnosis of cancer.  Or, in honor of my new friend who will be facing an uphill battle and the weeks and months to come. 

Thank you as always. I am a lucky one and therefore, I walk for those who are unable. 

Love, Mary Brooks Rice 


PS If you’re interested in joining me in 2025, let me know!