Ask Mary Ann I. about how she raised more than $500,000 for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day®, and she won’t tell you about an annual fundraising event, or a secret strategy. Instead, she’ll tell you she’s simply grateful for the family, friends and colleagues who have generously supported her fundraising efforts year after year. 

Seventeen years after participating in her first Komen 3-Day, that unwavering support helped Mary Ann become the third participant in 3-Day history to raise more than $500,000. 

“I am so incredibly lucky to have a network of supporters who are very generous and donate to me year after year,” Mary Ann said. “This milestone belongs to them.” 

From One Walk to 17 Years 

When Mary Ann first signed up for the 3-Day in 2009, becoming one of its top fundraisers was the furthest thing from her mind. She joined after her cousins invited her to walk in honor of her mom and aunt, both breast cancer survivors. 

“My cousins told me about the 3-Day and invited me to walk with them,” Mary Ann said. “They told me about how it was an amazing experience and they were right. I loved everything about it, and have been doing it ever since.” 

What began as one walk in Cleveland soon became a Pink Bubble tradition. Over the years, Mary Ann, now 61, has traveled to 3-Day events across the country. This summer, she’ll participate in her 17th 3-Day in Boston. 

“It’s the people, the love, the camaraderie and the common goal that keeps me inspired and coming back,” she said. 

Fundraising Built on Relationships 

Unlike many participants who organize annual fundraising events like golf tournaments, Mary Ann has built her fundraising success one relationship at a time. Before retiring, she spent more than 30 years in the consulting industry, building friendships and professional connections with people who also contributed to her fundraising efforts.  

“They have generously supported me year and after year because of the relationships we have,” Mary Ann said.  

She also believes people donate because breast cancer impacts so many lives. 

“Everyone has some connection to breast cancer. It’s a cause that is near and dear to so many people, and everyone wants to find a cure,” Mary Ann said.  

Mary Ann’s Advice for New Fundraisers 

After 17 years of fundraising, Mary Ann’s advice for fellow participants is simple: Don’t be afraid to ask for donations more than once. 

“Send an email to potential supporters asking for a donation more than once. People forget. So, send the email again,” she said. “When you get a donation, always send a thank-you note. After the 3-Day event, send a follow-up note to donors to let them know how much the event meant to you and thank them once again for their donation. It’s really important to let them know how much this means to you.”  

To learn more about the 3-Day, visit the3day.org.