Over three years ago, this world lost one of the most selfless people I've ever met. Louise Ramos, my grandmother, lost her battle with ovarian cancer. Louise always ensured everyone else was okay before herself, even when battling cancer. Even until her last days, she showed what it meant to be genuinely a kind person. She is the reason I am doing this. I can never begin to understand her pain, nor do I want anyone else to find out. But, unfortunately, we don't get to choose. That's why I decided to raise money for Chesapeake Regional, specifically the Bra-ha-ha. I want women unable to afford the testing to receive it so that they can catch the signs early and get the help needed to live happy and healthy lives.

To raise money for the Bra-ha-ha, I will be competing in two different races. The first race is a half marathon (13.1 miles) called the Cary Greenway Tour, which will take place on October 1st in Cary, NC. The second race is a full marathon (26.2 miles) named the City of Oak Marathon, which will take place on November 6th in Raleigh, NC. This will be my first time competing in a long-distance race, so please show support for a great cause and the memory of an extraordinary woman.

fundraising experience that celebrates survivorship and artistry. With a 38-C bra as their canvas, interested community members are challenged to construct unique and over-the-top designs using breast cancer as inspiration. These humorous and heartwarming masterpieces are unveiled at our annual Bra-ha-ha Awards Show and Auction, which serves as a fun tribute to those affected by breast cancer. The Bra-ha-ha encompasses a series of occasions, including the Awards Show and Auction, a week-long bra art exhibition, third-party philanthropy events and more, all with the aim to raise funds to improve breast health and breast cancer detection rates in the area’s uninsured and underinsured population.

Proceeds from The Bra-ha-ha® campaign help provide free mammograms and related breast health services to eligible uninsured and underinsured community members, and advanced technology at Chesapeake Regional Breast Care.