Michelle’s Angels, washington DC

For years, she was told that the lump was nothing, just changes in her breast or milk. After breast feeding her infant son, Reid, Michelle demanded a mammogram to get a closer look at the lump she had been feeling. Her doctor’s words “You are too young... the techs will laugh…” were, unfortunately, very wrong. She was diagnosed with stage 3C breast cancer and spent three years in treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, mastectomy and reconstruction). The cancer seemed to be in remission, but in 2008, it returned in the form of metastatic breast cancer, now in her bones, liver and chest. There was no need for Michelle’s story to be like this.

Michelle’s Angels walk to raise awareness that breast cancer is a disease of women, old and young alike. They walk in honor of those currently fighting, and, in memory of those who fought valiantly and are no longer with us, and as a reminder that there is a happy, wonderful life after a cancer diagnosis.

Since its inception, Michelle’s Angels has successfully raised over $70,000 towards treatment, research, and awareness in the fight against breast cancer.

“I don’t want to waste my cancer. I am dedicated to creating something positive out of this negative situation through Michelle’s Angels. I have worked hard to look for silver linings, to this hand of cards I have been dealt. If my ordeal can attract attention to the cause, or get someone to seek a second opinion, a mammogram or a biopsy, then we are making headway. I hope my story will inspire someone to live their life to the fullest, and get active (if I can do it, anyone can do it!) or put their problems really into perspective.” - Michelle Bynum

Amazon Heart Thunder is a key supporter of Michelle’s Angels.

In 2004, twenty young breast cancer survivors challenged themselves to a 1,000mile ride on Harley-Davidson motorcycles from San Diego to San Francisco, forming life-long friendships, gaining support and strength in dealing with their breast cancer experience, and raising vital funds for awareness of breast cancer issues. This ride later expanded in 2005 to become a Global Relay with 1,000 mile rides in the United Kingdom, the US and Australia, involving 48 young breast cancer survivors from around the world. In 2006, they became the Amazon Heart Thunder.

Harley-Davidson generously sponsors these rides around the world by giving each participant leather riding jackets and lending a brand new motorcycles for each rider.

Participants pay for their travel to the event and commit to raising at least $1,500 in donations for breast cancer causes. All riders must be breast cancer survivors, and riders of all experience levels are welcome. Each year, more women learn to ride in order to take part.