Hi friends! I am racing in Ironman Lake Placid this July, and I would like to take this opportunity to race for a cause near and dear to me. One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Thanks to incredible research efforts through multiple charities raising money and awareness of the importance of this cause, breast cancer is more treatable than ever. Technology has improved screening modalities and revolutionized surgical care, and so many breakthroughs have been made in pharmaceuticals leading to increased survival in those living with both local and metastatic disease. This is incredible, but also underscores the need for continued efforts to fund research and increase advocacy. Breast cancer affects everyone- statistically, we all have been or will be in some way impacted by this disease.
As many of you know, I am a surgical resident with an interest in surgical oncology. I have also been a triathlete for the past 14 years and have been working towards finishing my first full Ironman. For those unaware of what Ironman is: 2.4-mile (3.9 km) swim, a 112-mile (180.2 km) bike ride, and a marathon 26.2-mile (42.2 km) run completed in that order, a total of 140.6 miles (226.3 km) to finish. My race in 2020 was canceled due to the pandemic and this is my first true opportunity to complete this goal. It is infinitely more meaningful to me to dedicate this race to the patients who I have had the privilege to serve as a resident, my family and friends who have been impacted by this disease, and the hope to make a difference as an athlete, advocate, and physician/scientist.
I would be personally grateful for donations of any amount to the Susan G. Komen foundation, as well as awareness for this cause in lieu of donations. As the world’s largest and most impactful breast cancer organization, Susan G. Komen supports more breast cancer research than any other nonprofit outside the U.S. government, while providing real-time help to those facing the disease. If you’re willing to support my journey, thank you!