Runway Shows
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 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.
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