Survivors
Alanna’s Story
Returning to the runway this February, Alanna brings with her a depth of strength forged across two diagnoses. She modeled in a previous SoCal show, but her story continues—marked by perseverance, deep reflection, and a powerful desire to uplift others walking a similar path.“You don’t think it will happen to you.”
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.”
Deane’s Story
When Deanne heard the words no one ever expects—you have breast cancer—her first reaction was pure shock. Despite catching it early and learning it was hormone-based, the news still felt surreal. What truly made it real was the daily number of women diagnosed—a statistic that kept echoing in her mind long after the doctor’s visit was over.
Read MoreFrom Chemo Treatments to Marathon Miles
In September of 2023, 38-year-old Amy Burke was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Burke, a middle school teacher and mom of two, faced 16 rounds of chemotherapy and 28 straight days of radiation over the next year. After intensive treatment and a double mastectomy, the Haverhill native became cancer-free in 2024. Now, over two years later, Burke trains for the 130th Boston Marathon as one of four runners for Runway for Recovery, a non-profit that supports families’ journeys with breast cancer.
Read MoreJeannette’s Story
“At 33, hearing the words ‘breast cancer’ felt like the end of the world as I knew it.”
On August 25, 2009, Jeannette received a diagnosis that mirrored her mother’s—invasive ductal carcinoma, stage IIb, grade 3, triple negative. She was BRCA negative, but it didn’t ease the weight of what was ahead.
Read MoreKristen Dahlgren, Today Show Correspondant, to Model in Runway Show, SoCal in Newport Beach on 2/28/26
This year, that impact will be on full display at the Runway Show: Southern California on February 28, where we are honored to feature Spotlight Model Kristen Dahlgren, Today Show correspondent and breast cancer survivor. Kristen’s voice, advocacy, and lived experience reflect the heart of Runway for Recovery and the reason this night matters so deeply.
Read MoreKatie 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 MoreRocio’s Story
In early 2023, Rocio Martin Hoyos was in one of the healthiest seasons of her life—physically strong, emotionally grounded, and deeply focused on wellness. She had prioritized her body and mind for months, and was feeling better than she had in years. So when she found a lump, it came as a jarring surprise.
Read MoreMarcella’s Story — SoCal
When Marcella Powell was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer in March of 2022, it felt like the ground disappeared beneath her feet. An itchy breast and an unusual white discharge prompted her to seek medical advice. Initially dismissed as “normal,” her instincts urged her to get a second opinion — one that ultimately saved her life.
Read MoreLaura’s Story
As both a physician and a breast cancer patient, Laura Tangredi found herself navigating a journey she thought she knew — only to realize how personal, emotional, and life-altering the experience truly is.
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