Family & Friends,

On August 15th-17th, I will be walking in my first Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk in the city of Boston in an effort to raise funds to help end breast cancer. 3 days, 60 miles will be challenging, but not as challenging as receiving a breast cancer diagnosis and enduring treatments to fight this disease. 

I will be walking along side my close friend and breast cancer survivor, Lynn, and her son JJ. Lynn is a rock star when it comes to this event, as this year will be her 18th walk! Her and JJ are seasoned pros, so I know I'll be in good company in Boston. 

So, why walk? You'd be hard pressed to find someone who doesn't have a friend or family member who has been impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis. This holds true for me and my family as my sister, Kelly Bender, is a two-time breast cancer survivor. In July 2020 after her annual mammogram, Kelly was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In-Situ (DCIS), stage 0 breast cancer, in her right breast and underwent a lumpectomy and radiation treatments. In the 3 years that followed, she continued with her annual diagnostic mammograms and ultrasounds, but unfortunately in July 2024 she was diagnosed with a new occurrence of DCIS. In September 2024, Kelly underwent a bilateral mastectomy and tissue reconstruction. Thankfully with her post-mastectomy margins, Kelly did not have to undergo any further treatments. 

Kelly is my "why". I will be walking in this 3-Day to honor her and everything she endured to beat breast cancer not once but twice. 

If my sister's story sounds familiar to someone you know and love, please consider donating to honor them. Your love and support for me as I participate in this event is greatly appreciated. 

Your donation is tax deductible and remember to check with your employer regarding a matching gift. After making your donation, mail your matching gift form along with a copy of your Komen 3-Day donation receipt to: 

Susan G. Komen 3-Day 

PO Box 660843 

Dallas, TX 75266-0843 

For online matching gift, please visit the3day.org/matching and make reference to my information: Maureen OTormey, Participant ID 8387315, Boston 3-Day. 

With love and gratitude, 

Maureen