In 2021, amid the pandemic, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. I am deeply grateful to my community of family and friends who surrounded me with love and support throughout my journey.

One of the reasons I walk is to stand with those newly diagnosed every day. Cancer is an ugly monster that affects far more than just your body—it changes you physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Treatment may end, but side effects can linger for years, sometimes forever.

This year, I walk in honor of survivors, to remind the world that our journeys don’t end when we ring the bell. In fact, some of our stories become even more challenging. Survivors often need help with things many people never hear about—massages for pain relief, lymphedema treatment, specialty bras, tart cherry juice for joint pain, and financial support to take time off work to cope with brain fog, menopause, and other lasting effects.

I’m grateful for my Hope Girls community, because survivors need each other to survive—and to thrive. Please consider supporting survivors in big and small ways. Your help can bring comfort, relief, and hope long after treatment ends.