Survivors
Clewis Howe’s Story
Clewis Howe was diagnosed with Stage IIB, Grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma in December 2020, at just 42 years old.
Today, Clewis is preparing to celebrate five years cancer-free.
“That’s 1,825 days of waking up,” she says. “Of watching sunrises I almost didn’t get to see. Of laughing louder, loving harder, and holding nothing back.”
Read MoreJani Raynor’s Story
Jani Raynor was diagnosed with Stage 3C breast cancer in 2022. At the time, she was newly separated and raising three young children.
“A life-threatening diagnosis doesn’t have to be the end of your story — it can be the spark that ignites your most powerful new beginning.”
Read MoreAshley Edge’s Story
Ashley was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2023, when her son, Carter, was six years old. What followed surprised her.
Carter stepped up in ways she never expected—offering to make her snacks, respecting the days she needed rest, and watching as his mom moved through treatment with faith, strength, and honesty.
Read MoreMelissa 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 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 MoreMeredith Parkinson’s Story
Meredith Parkinson is an Ironman triathlete, which means she knows her body.
So when one of her children accidentally kicked her in the breast and the pain felt worse than normal, Meredith paid attention.
Read MoreBrienne Black’s Story
Dancing has always brought Brienne joy when she was so scared.
“It was one thing that could take my mind off the cancer,” Brienne says.
That is why Runway has deeper meaning for Brienne.
“The idea of dancing, even just for a moment, breaks you from the pain and fear,” she says. “That’s why I love that people dance down the runway, not walk.”
Stay tuned for something special at the 20th Anniversary show!
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