Breast Cancer in my 50’s
Why Our Models Choose to Dance the Runway
Experience the power of Runway for Recovery through the voices of our Models—individuals who are breast cancer previvors, survivors, currently in treatment, and those living with metastatic breast cancer, alongside the legacies of loved ones we honor and remember.
Across our Runway Shows in Boston, Los Angeles, and New York City, these stories come to life on stage. Each Model walks not only for themselves, but for their families, their communities, and those who can no longer walk beside them.
This is more than an event—it’s a movement rooted in resilience, connection, and purpose. It is a space where strength is celebrated, stories are shared, and a powerful community comes together to remind one another that no one faces breast cancer alone.
Inspired by her own experience, Arlene has become a source of strength for others. She now supports and uplifts newly diagnosed patients, offering empathy, guidance, and a powerful reminder that they are not alone.
Valerie’s Story
Valerie David’s story is one of extraordinary resilience, purpose, and unwavering hope.
Valerie is a 27-year cancer survivor who has faced multiple diagnoses across her lifetime—from Stage III Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma to Stage II breast cancer, and now living with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer with bone metastases. “Breast cancer has shaped who I am today by inspiring me to help others through the performing arts,” she shares. For the past eight years, she has been living with metastatic disease, continuing to defy expectations and rewrite what survivorship can look like.
Read MoreBeth’s Story
Beth Gelman’s story is one of profound loss, unwavering honesty, and a deliberate, powerful choice to live with joy.
Read MoreJanis’ Story
As an OB/GYN, Janis has spent decades guiding women through critical health decisions. She knows the statistics. She understands risk factors. But when it came to breast cancer, even she was surprised.
“You don’t think it will happen to you.”
Katie Couric to Model in The 2nd Annual Runway Show, New York City on 4/30/26
We are incredibly honored to announce Katie Couric as our Spotlight Model for the 2nd Annual Runway Show: New York City on April 30, 2026 at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers.
Read MoreKathleen’s Story
Kathleen Keeley grew up surrounded by women affected by breast cancer. She fundraised for breast cancer causes, supported loved ones through their diagnoses, and deeply believed in the power of community and action. But she never imagined that one day, she would be the one sitting across from a surgeon, hearing the words that would forever change her life.
Read MoreMarie’s Story
Marie Rose’s cancer journey began on a day that should have felt ordinary—but instead became unforgettable. It was Boston Marathon Day in 2012. As she walked through the crowds of tired, triumphant runners wrapped in foil blankets, Marie was reeling. She had just left a specialist’s office after a biopsy and was walking alone with the devastating knowledge that her life had changed.
Read MoreMichelle’s Story
Michelle Gallegos never expected to hear the words “Stage 4” after having already been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer once before. In 2013, she underwent a double mastectomy and reconstruction, closing what she thought was a painful chapter. More than a decade later, in early 2024, she found herself once again on the other end of a diagnosis—this time, metastatic breast cancer that had spread to her bones.
Read MoreMeet the Models: Deborah Williams
Metastatic breast cancer has encourage me to live in the present and enjoy every day. I know how quickly this disease can turn and I’m grateful for the tribe I have in my life.
Read MoreMeet the Models: Missy Devlin
Breast cancer impacted me physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially. I was 57 and was in very good health. I had started a new job less than a year before my diagnosis. It began when I started feeling tired, weak, and achy all over. I didn’t have any of the typical symptoms of breast cancer. I was told by my primary care physician that it appeared I had fibromyalgia. That diagnosis just didn’t sit well with me. I pushed to have more tests done and was also due for my annual mammogram. After the mammogram, the cancer diagnosis came quickly and I became part of a club that no one wants to be member of.
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