Becky Conary’s Story

What does returning for the 20th Anniversary mean to you?

For Becky Conary, participating in Runway’s 20th Anniversary represents more than a single event.

“It is a celebration of strength, resilience, remembrance and community,” Becky says. “It’s a reminder of how powerful support and connection can be during life’s most difficult moments.”

From the day Becky was introduced to Runway and Olivia, she was moved by the mission and the impact it has on families forever changed by breast cancer.

This year, dancing as part of the 20th Anniversary feels especially meaningful.

“To me, this represents so much more than a runway,” she says. “It is a celebration of strength, connection, resilience, and coming together for those facing one of life’s most difficult moments in such a special way.”

 

How did breast cancer first affect your life?

Becky’s first personal experience with breast cancer was in 2007, when her mom was diagnosed.

“I remember feeling overwhelmed with the thoughts of what was going to happen,” Becky shared in 2021.

She wondered what her mom would have to go through. She wondered if she would be okay. She knew their family would surround her with love and support, but still wondered if that would be enough.

Her mom went through surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal treatment.

She became a survivor.

Watching her mom go through breast cancer changed Becky. It also made her take a step back and think about her own health. She became determined to take control of what she could. Remaining positive, staying calm, and caring for her wellness became priorities.

She found peace. She worked toward feeling strong mentally and physically by the time she turned 40.

Then, a few years later, Becky found herself facing her own diagnosis.

 

How were you diagnosed?

In 2013, Becky felt a tiny lump in her right breast.

She thought it was worth asking about. Her doctor’s initial thought was that, based on the size and placement, it could be a cyst. Still, it was time for Becky’s first mammogram, and her doctor ordered an ultrasound to be sure.

A few days before Becky’s 40th birthday, after a mammogram and biopsy, she heard the words she had feared.

“I’m sorry and very surprised to share with you that you have breast cancer.”

“One of my biggest fears became a reality,” Becky shared.

She cried for half a second, then began pacing around her house.

Then she knew she needed a plan.

How would she tell her daughter, Brianna? How would she tell her family? How would she call her best friend, who had been waiting anxiously for the results?

“What did I do?” Becky wrote. “I went into ‘go’ mode and said, you’ve got this.”

 

What helped you move forward?

Becky had genetic testing done right away. She learned she was not genetically predisposed to breast cancer, which gave her a small sense of relief for her daughter’s future.

Still, her mind spun with questions.

She wondered if any choices she had made could have led to this. She processed information. She did research. She asked questions. Gathering what she needed helped her choose her path and prepare for the next step.

“I told myself over and over, ‘I’ve got this,’” Becky shared.

Her breast cancer was caught at a very early stage. After a unilateral mastectomy, her treatment plan included hormonal therapy for five years.

“I am living proof of why self-examinations and mammograms are so important,” Becky says.

 

What has support meant to you?

Throughout her story, Becky has been surrounded by love.

“I am so very blessed to be surrounded by my family and the most incredible people,” Becky shared.

That support continues to inspire her to give back and be there for others.

For Becky, Runway is one of the ways she does that.

“Thank you for coming alongside me as I dance the runway for this incredible cause,” Becky says. “Whether you are supporting through a donation, cheering from the audience or simply thinking of me and all of those affected, I am deeply grateful to have you on my side.”

We are so excited to have her back on the runway!