11/03/2025
More often than not, I’m reminded of my own mortality. Yesterday’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event was one of those times. Thousands of people—over 3,500—came together to support, remember, celebrate, and heal.
While we were still setting up, I noticed a woman nearby who suddenly began to cry. She and her husband had been walking around, taking everything in. I gently asked if she was okay. Through her tears, she said this was her first walk since being diagnosed, and she was simply overwhelmed.
Without hesitation, I walked over, and she hugged me as if we’d known each other for years. I didn’t mind that a complete stranger was holding onto me; I was honored that she felt safe enough to do so. I told her that it gets easier. She smiled through her tears, said “thank you,” and we both went back to preparing for the day.
Moments like that remind me—it’s not just a walk. It’s not just a fundraiser that people casually donate ten dollars to. For many, it’s the culmination of a major life event. It’s a chance to support, remember, celebrate, and heal.
When I get on the microphone to give my speech, I always ask for a moment of silence to honor those who have lost their lives to this terrible disease. And every single time, I get choked up. Yesterday, though, it wasn’t because of my own loss or my own battle. It was because of the sea of faces in front of me—the sheer number of women (and men) who have been touched by breast cancer, whether personally or through someone they love.
That sight was overwhelming, but in the best way. The support, the cheering, the smiles, the hugs, and the words of encouragement washed away any sadness. There truly is strength in numbers.
The Making Strides walk is more than an event I help organize—it’s a sacred time to support, remember, celebrate, and heal. I’m deeply grateful to my friends who show up for me year after year. I know the pink can get old, and I know it takes effort to keep showing up. But you do—physically or in spirit—and that, to me, is the truest form of friendship.
