Cristina’s Race for the Cure Story

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By: Cristina Ancog

I am so grateful for the opportunity to participate in the 2026 Detroit Race for the Cure, hosted by Susan G. Komen and supported by the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) where I am proud to work. 

This is a cause that is so meaningful to me because breast cancer deeply impacted my family. I remember getting that horrifying call, on a dark and freezing winter night in college that changed my whole life within seconds — my Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. I wanted to run to my Mom’s side, but I had no way to get to her. 

Thoughts raced through my mind. What is going to happen to Mom? Am I at risk now? I was scared, alone, and filled with so many unanswered questions.  

I am so thankful to say that today my Mom is a courageous breast cancer survivor who continues to face every day with compassion and kindness. I am also so excited to run alongside her in the 5K Race for the Cure. 

This experience would never have been possible without the incredible support of the DDP and my teammates who encouraged me to participate. It’s an honor to work for an organization that does so much good for Detroit and builds a strong community within its work. 

Details for the 2026 Race for the Cure can be found here.

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