2024 was my first time signing up to be a team captain for the Koman MORE THAN PINK Walk. I was 1 year out from my mastectomies. Chemo and radiation were well in my rearview. I was on to medication management and routine surveillance, but most importantly, I was FINALLY feeling back to my old self. 

Last year my team did an amazing job raising over $2,500 for the Komen Walk! As a top contributor, I was going to have a special table for my team and even have the opportunity to go up on stage during the opening ceremonies to cheer on the survivors and thrivers. I couldn't wait for the day of the walk to come! To be able to celebrate all of my victories as a breast cancer survivor and walk side by side with my family and friends. 

The morning of the event it was raining...hard. I remember driving downtown with my family and parking in the survivor lot underneath the freeway overpass outside of the Summerfest grounds. I was texting with my family and friends who were on their way downtown or had already arrived. The race had been delayed due to the weather. We waited and watched as the rain poured down. There was a lightning strike...and another. A few minutes later a voice came over the Summerfest PA system announcing the walk was CANCELLED. 

I was devastated and disappointed, not only for myself, but for all of the organizers, volunteers, companies who had donated supplies, and for all the other survivors and their teams who were looking so forward to the event. In a blink, all of the planning, preparation, time and effort was washed right down the drain. Though a small group from my team did make it out to a lovely brunch that morning, it was not the celebration I had been anticipating, and I was crushed.

This year I walk for redemption, a redo for what was unable to happen last year. Mother nature, please be kind to us.

I walk for my family members, friends and colleagues who have shared the news of their breast cancer diagnosis in the past year. Stay strong. I am here for you.

I walk for the cancer patients I am privileged to encounter every day at work. Being able to share my journey has not only made an impact on the quality of patient care I am able to provide, but has also helped to heal my soul.

I walk for all of the healthcare professionals who have had a hand in my treatment anywhere along the way. It is because of all you that I am CANCER FREE today.

I walk for the loved ones we have lost due to cancer. Gone far too soon and always missed.

I walk for all the women who unknowingly will one day become part of this tribe, of those diagnosed with breast cancer. 1 in 8!!! That is the statistic. If you think about the women in your family and inner circle, there is a likelihood that one day one of them will be going through it too.

I walk to raise awareness and fundraise to help us get one step closer to a world without breast cancer. Funds raised help support breakthrough research and provide assistance to those facing breast cancer today who need our help. Whether it's emotional support via Komen's helpline, financial support through Komen's financial assistance program, or navigation services to break down barriers to care, Komen is an amazing resource during the most difficult of times.

Ending breast cancer needs all of us and your generosity can make a real difference. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to my team, Mick's Mob. Every single dollar makes a difference! Also, please join my team for the 2025 MORE THAN PINK Walk on Sunday, September 28th. What a privilege it would be for me to celebrate with you!