Parents with Breast Cancer
Larissa 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 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 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 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!
Read MoreRenee Plodzik’s Story
Living with metastatic breast cancer, Renee has learned to live in three-month cycles, planning around scans and finding ways to stay present with her family. Her relationship with Runway began in 2022, when her first show helped her understand that even with a Stage 4 diagnosis, there is still hope.
“Maybe I’m not strong enough to live through metastatic breast cancer,” Renee says. “But I am strong enough to live with it.”
Read MoreLindsay Bababekov’s Story
Lindsay, who is currently in treatment, wants people to know how much it matters to show up.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out,” she says. “Even saying you don’t know what to say, but you are there for them, means the world.”
Read MoreChristina Clements’s Story
Christina learned how much peace can come from having a plan and a team you trust.
“I didn’t start to feel better until I had a plan,” she says. “Once that was in place, I could breathe again.”
Read MoreAshley Maxey’s Story
Ashley Maxey was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 and then metastatic breast cancer in 2021.
Since then, Ashley has kept her eyes on her kids. Her job now is to fight to be here for their moments and memories.
Her advice is simple: “Take it one day at a time. Give thanks with each day you are given. Don’t forget to smile and hug the ones you love.”
Read MoreMarci Eiserman’s Story
For the past few years, Marci has watched her daughters, Kenzie and Addie, take the stage without her. She loved being able to sit in the audience and experience the show from that side. But when Olivia asked her to come back for the 20th, Marci decided not to wait for the 10-year milestone she once had in mind.
Marci is excited to return to the stage and show newer models what life can look like years after diagnosis.
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