SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - It's time again to tackle a big challenge as part of a big fight. The Susan G. Komen San Diego 3-Day begins Friday morning with opening ceremonies at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Two years ago when Michelle Abromowitz was diagnosed with breast cancer, she made a choice.
"I decided that day, as soon as I had the diagnosis that this is not going to destroy my life. It's just going to affect it for a short period of time," she said.
Michelle's story has a happy ending. She's got plenty of time left to live and walk with friends like Stephanie Castle.
"My mom and my stepmom are survivors. My mom was diagnosed three years ago and she's now a three-year survivor. My stepmom is a 17-year survivor," Stephanie said.
The Susan G. Komen San Diego 3-Day will take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It's a 60-mile journey with more than 3,000 walkers, including our own Matt Baylow and Barbara-Lee Edwards, who will be walking for the 11th time.
"Sometimes it rains, sometimes it's too hot. This isn't the easiest thing these women have ever done, and they do it willingly. They do it with wonderful spirits," breast cancer survivor Dottie Starr said.
There are seven 3-Days held nationally this year, but San Diego always leads the way, collectively raising nearly $100 million for the cause.
"It's like one big family, and everybody's here for one purpose – to find a cure and get rid of it," a walker said.
Which brings us back to Michelle Abramowitz, who after surgery, reconstruction and chemotherapy, walked herself into the Survivor's Circle.
"Last year I did it for me. This year I'm doing it for every other woman and man who's diagnosed with breast cancer," she said.
Registration for the San Diego 3-Day is closed, but anyone can donate or cheer the participants along.