Posts by Josie Silk
Melissa Herrmann’s Story
Melissa walks as a survivor and as a daughter honoring her mother’s memory, carrying with her a message she hopes others will remember:
“Never give up on yourself. Life is worth every second, no matter how much strife or struggles may lie ahead. There is always a silver lining and a place where hope grows.”
Read MoreMaria McGravey’s Story
“My cancer journey has changed me in so many ways,” Maria shares. “It tested my faith, my strength, challenged my spirit and taught me the true meaning of resilience.”
For Maria, stepping onto the Runway stage is an opportunity to celebrate her survivorship while helping other families affected by breast cancer.
Read MoreLarissa Radeker’s Story
Larissa Radecker is a mother of three who is currently facing Stage IV inflammatory breast cancer, which has spread to her bones.
When Larissa learned that families and children could walk together at Runway’s 20th Anniversary Show, she knew she wanted to be part of it.
“I would do anything to walk in this show to show my children that I am still me, even with cancer,” she shared.
Read MoreHoward Cohen’s Story
Howard Cohen is walking the Runway in support of his sister, Emily Cohen, and the work she has dedicated herself to.
“I am thrilled to support her in all the ways I can on this journey.”
Read MoreAllison Poirier’s Story
Nearly two years ago, Allison was diagnosed with Stage 3C invasive ductal carcinoma. Since then, she has undergone chemotherapy, radiation, and five surgeries.
As a mother of four, she hopes her children have learned that while they cannot control everything that happens to them, they can control how they respond.
Read MoreLisa Carlin’s Story
Lisa Carlin was diagnosed with breast cancer at 38, when her daughters were just three and five years old.
Now, 13 years later, Lisa has turned that experience into purpose.
The hot pink ballet flats she wore during treatment became a symbol of strength and connection with her daughters. Years later, that symbol inspired Poppies with Purpose, her shoe brand created to bring comfort, empowerment, and joy to others walking through breast cancer.
Read MoreMercy, Brenda, Janelle and Waleska’s Story
Jennifer Pineda first danced on the Runway for Recovery stage in 2023 with her daughter, Janelle, by her side.
At the time, Jennifer was living with metastatic breast cancer, but her focus was never only on herself.
“My strength is my girls,” Jennifer shared. “They are my main motivation.”
Jennifer passed away on November 7, 2024, at the age of 40. Today, Brenda, Mercy, Waleska, Trayana, and Janelle continue to carry her legacy forward.
Read MoreAnne Bunn’s Story
For Anne, Runway takes a topic that can feel ugly, heavy, and often hidden, and shows another side of it. The event reminds her family that cancer is part of their story, but it does not define who they are.
Read MoreAlexander Klimchenko’s Story
This October, Alexis’s husband, Alexander Klimchenko, will walk the Runway in her memory, carrying her story, her strength, and the love she poured into her family.
Read MoreKristin Ferrari’s Story
Kristin Ferrari was diagnosed with Stage II invasive ductal carcinoma in September 2012, at the age of 40. One month later, she underwent a double mastectomy at Massachusetts General Hospital.
This year, Kristin returns not only as a survivor, but as a co-chair for the 20th Anniversary Boston show and a Board Member!
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