Betsy Hetzler’s Story

Why are you returning for Runway’s 20th Anniversary?

For Betsy, this milestone is deeply personal.

Runway has been part of her family’s story for years, offering a place to celebrate, remember, and feel surrounded by love.

“The energy and love that I feel when we do this show has carried me through some difficult times,” Betsy says.

What are we celebrating when you step onto the Runway stage?

This year, Betsy is celebrating more than 25 years of survival after breast cancer.

She is also honoring her brave mother, Sally Hetzler, who died from breast cancer just eight days before Frannie was born.

Sally never got to meet her grandchildren, but Betsy carries her memory with her. Events like Runway give Betsy and her family a way to celebrate Sally’s life and remember her love. 

“Runway gives us an opportunity to celebrate and remember her,” Betsy says.

How has breast cancer shaped your journey?

Betsy’s cancer journey began with losing her mother to breast cancer.

Years later, when Betsy was diagnosed herself, her children were only 5 and 10 years old. That experience shaped her family deeply.

Today, those children are 31 and 36. Betsy is also a proud grandmother to a beautiful one-year-old grandson.

 

Why does Runway’s mission matter to you?

Betsy has seen the impact of Runway’s work firsthand.

She also wants to recognize her colleague, Cassie Firenze, whose son and husband survive her. Runway provided Cassie’s family with tremendous support, and Betsy feels great pride in celebrating what Runway has done for families over the last 20 years.

For Betsy, Runway is not only a show. It is a platform for families to share their stories and feel held by a community that understands.

“Thank you for giving us all a platform to share our stories,” Betsy says.

This October, Betsy returns to the Runway stage with gratitude, remembrance, and joy. 

“I feel so honored to have been included in this anniversary celebration,” Betsy says, “and am so grateful to share the stage with my daughter.”