Three years ago, Bernice McKee, then only 35, faced the harrowing diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer.
Today, she stands not just as a survivor but as a beacon of hope, committed to inspiring others on similar paths and raising vital awareness.
To mark her “cancerversary”, McKee says she has embarked on an audacious challenge: running and walking a staggering 276 kilometres between August 1 and October 31, one kilometre for each of the 276 days she spent in active treatment.
“Each step, each kilometre, each day, each breath is an incredible reminder of what it means to decide to do something and do it,” she says.
Her journey into advocacy began with her own harrowing experience. In 2022, she felt a lump under her arm, later nicknamed “Luscious Wank” – and after a biopsy, her worst fears were confirmed. “The words were searing: triple-negative breast cancer. Nothing prepares you for the tidal wave of emotions that crashes into you in that instant,” she recalls.
The months that followed were marked by aggressive chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. At her lowest point, McKee admits she almost gave up. “I was weak and nauseous, and my spirit was utterly depleted. For the first time, I thought maybe it would be easier to stop fighting. But my body refused. The very next day, I went for a jog. Running became my lifeline.”
Now, running is not only a symbol of resilience but also her way of giving back. McKee is raising funds and awareness through I Love Boobies ZA NPC, a non-profit that provides free breast cancer screenings and supports women through bra donations.
“Many women don’t have the privilege of early diagnosis or access to medical aid,” she explains.
“Through I Love Boobies’ bra collection initiative, we give dignity and support to women who might otherwise go without. A simple bra can mean the world to someone in treatment, a reminder that she is seen, valued, and not alone.”
McKee is calling on South Africans to join her mission: walk or run alongside her, donate a gently used bra, or contribute to her fundraiser.
“Early detection saved my life. Every bra, every conversation, every screening helps promote awareness. This cancerversary is not just about me – it’s about paying it forward, honouring those still fighting, and making sure more women get the chance to survive. For me, my cancer-versary is about paying it forward with humility and gratitude. Last year for my cancer-versary, I ran my first half marathon in honour of breast cancer heroines and raised funds for screenings. This year, through bra collections and more fundraising (and yes, another half marathon!), I continue in that spirit, to live a good life, and to shine a light of awareness, hope, and solidarity.”
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star