Why I'm Walking in the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia 3-Day

Today, I have a different kind of #MondayMotivation post for you guys. I'm sharing something very close to my heart that I've never opened up about here before.

Every two minutes, one case of breast cancer is diagnosed in a woman in the U.S. Do you know anyone who has been affected? I do.

I also know first-hand the rush of emotions and helpless feelings upon receiving a cancer diagnosis. Although it wasn’t breast cancer, you never expect to hear the word cancer from your doctor, yet it begins a series of life-changing discussions and decisions. Three years after what was supposed to be a routine check-up, I still think about that day. And it’s still a reality I face at each appointment, knowing there’s a possibility it could return.

Sidenote: a few days after my diagnosis, I ran my first 5K in DC even though I felt defeated and really wanted to stay at home. Instead, I used that race to run out my emotions: fear, anger, helplessness, and ended up beating my own PR by several minutes. (A goal I had been trying to accomplish during months of training.) The photo above was taken when I finished the race, and has become a very important reminder of how I pushed through a tough race and am stronger than I give myself credit for. Tears still begin to form when I think of that day (especially while writing this post).

Because of my experience, I'm joining in on the fight against breast cancer by walking in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® event in Philadelphia August 25-27. It’s a three-day, 60-mile walk that’s making a huge impact in the breast cancer fight.

In the past 14 years and 156 events, more than $820 million has been raised to save lives and make huge strides in breast cancer research.

I am incredibly excited to be part of such an amazing event. One of my goals for this year is to volunteer my time for a cause I believe in and, up until a few weeks ago, I didn’t know where to start. Now, I can’t think of a better way to spend three days as cancer hits very close to home.

Whether you know a loved one who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, or you yourself have been affected, I want women to know that they don't have to go through the journey alone. It's during events like the 3-Day where we all find strength and inspiration together to fight. I can't wait to be part of it.

In 2016, Susan G. Komen announced a Bold Goal – to reduce the current number of breast cancer deaths by 50% in the U.S. by 2026. I want to be part of turning that goal into reality.

Will you join me in walking 60 miles and making an impact in the fight against breast cancer? You can register at The3Day.org. Be sure to use code ALISSA10 for $10 off registration for the Philadelphia event!

I would love it if you’d join me! Who wouldn’t want to fight breast cancer by spending three days walking, making friends, and sleeping in pink tents?

The countdown is on... we are less than a month away from the start of the 3-Day event and I can't wait to share this journey with you. I'll be updating you guys on much more throughout August, including how I’m preparing to walk 60 miles so definitely stay tuned!

If you aren't able to walk in the 3-Day event and would like to help, I am also fundraising up until the event and would love it if you'd donate directly on my page. It's super quick and easy - and every dollar helps in the fight against breast cancer!

This post is sponsored by Susan G. Komen on behalf of Fit Approach, 

however all opinions are my own.
Last two images via Susan G. Komen.