Meet TRICIA MIYOSHI, our 2024 Community Walk for Breast Cancer Honoree

In Tricia's words.....

"I am both surprised and honored to be this year’s Honoree for the Miles of Hope 21st Annual Community Walk for Breast Cancer. 

Miles of Hope is an incredible organization that continually supports those who have been affected by breast cancer. I have met many strong warriors and survivors while attending the various events held each year and it is inspiring to see how everyone supports one another.  During the past 20 years, Miles of Hope has helped those affected with breast cancer with the cost of copays, medications, medical equipment, transportation to appointments and much more, much of which is raised through the generosity of donations.

In 2018 I was diagnosed with DCIS.  My treatment consisted of a lumpectomy and 18 rounds of radiation. I was very fortunate to be diagnosed so early and all the statistics told me that there was a very slim chance of a reoccurrence.  

I was aware of Miles of Hope, having participated in their Community Walk, but while receiving occupational therapy after surgery, a social worker at the hospital spoke to me of all the services that they offer to support breast cancer patients.   I was so thankful my cancer was caught early and after learning so much about what this organization does, I was inspired to become more involved. 

In 2018, I created a team to participate in the Community Walk and we continue to participate each year to raise money by soliciting businesses for raffle donations and reaching out to our friends, family, business colleagues and co-workers for donations.  In addition, we host a 50/50 raffle and a bake sale during the month of October at the company where I work.  

In December of 2020, I was devastated to receive the news that I had a reoccurrence, and while it was caught early, it was a more aggressive cancer than I had had before. This bout resulted in a mastectomy, 12 weeks of chemotherapy and one year of immunotherapy drugs. I am very fortunate and thankful to be 3 ½ years NED.

During my reoccurrence, it became more apparent to me how important and necessary it is for organizations like Miles of Hope, because the cost of treatment is so expensive, making it difficult for those struggling financially or with no insurance to pay for it.  This year, I attended the Marist College Play4Kay Breast Cancer Awareness Game, for the first time, and again was gratified to see the support Miles of Hope receives from the community for their commitment to helping others.

I am thankful to have had the unwavering support of my friends and my family who were there for me when I needed them, especially my husband Bud, and children, Drew, Richelle, Dylan & Alexa.  It would have been a much harder fight without their continued support.

I am so proud and eternally thankful for all the members of our team, the Boobee Brigade, formerly known as the Tilted Ta Tas, my family, but also our dear friends that are truly family to me, and for the support they have continued to give to both Miles of Hope and me.  

They inspire me to continue to fight for myself and others who have been touched by breast cancer."