3 IGA Members Take on the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk

IGA retailers across the country know that community isn’t just a value — it’s a way of life. Whether it’s stocking local produce, supporting neighborhood schools, or simply greeting customers by name, independent grocers are often at the heart of the communities they serve. This November, three remarkable women and IGA members are taking that community spirit to the streets of San Diego for a cause that’s close to their hearts — and likely yours, too.

Harvest Market's Jennifer Bosma, Foods, Etc.'s Kori Pierson, and United Markets' Kelly Smith will join thousands of others for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk for the Cure, a grueling but meaningful 60-mile journey over three days. Each of them is walking with a purpose. Each step they take honors loved ones lost, celebrates survivors, and moves us all closer to a world without breast cancer.

Kelly Smith and Jennifer Bosma at the 3-Day Walk for the Cure in 2023 (left to right).

Why We Walk

Kori Pierson, Foods, Etc.

For Kori, this year’s walk carries extra weight.

“With losing my mom, Ruth [Darling], last year, I wanted to do something to honor her and also to show my boys that Mama can do hard things not just for herself, but for the people she loves!”

As a grocer, Kori is used to hard work, long days, and putting others first. This walk is an extension of that commitment — an example of courage and strength that her sons (and her community) will never forget.

Jennifer Bosma, Harvest Market

Jennifer’s path to this year’s 3-Day is one paved with heartbreak and hope.

“I lost my aunt in 2019 due to complications arising from radiation treatment for breast cancer in 2004. In 2023 my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and is a survivor! I walk for my sisters, my mother, and my daughters and for those who cannot anymore.”

Jennifer’s aunt Pam passed away from sepsis caused by prior radiation treatment. Her sister Tanya fought breast cancer bravely, undergoing a double mastectomy and reconstruction surgery to reduce future risk. And just last year, her friend Ruth Darling passed away due to complications from her breast cancer treatment.

“In the United States, 1 in 8 women develop breast cancer and 1 in 43 will die from the disease. We need to find a cure for this cancer that does not cause other health problems in the future. Pam, Tanya, and Ruth — and all of our mothers, sisters, and daughters — deserve a better treatment and outcome for breast cancer.”

Kelly Smith, United Markets

Kelly’s story is one of deep personal loss and lasting commitment.

“I lost my mom in 2013 and have walked in eight walks since to raise awareness. I walk for my daughters and my friends in hope that they won't have to experience this disease.”

Her reason for walking is both personal and universal. Breast cancer touches nearly every family, and for Kelly, the fight continues until no mother, daughter, or friend has to face it again.

“Please support me as I commit to an incredible challenge. The Susan G. Komen 3-Day is a 60-mile walk over the course of three days. It will be hard, but it’s not as hard as breast cancer. It’s not as hard as chemo. It’s not as hard as getting bad news at your latest scan. It’s not as hard as saying goodbye. And that’s why I know I have to do this.”

More Than Just a Walk

This isn’t just a stroll through San Diego. Participants will walk 20 miles a day and camp along the route, all while fundraising and raising awareness. The physical toll will be tough, but it pales in comparison to the emotional journey breast cancer patients and their families endure. That perspective fuels each step Kelly, Kori, and Jennifer take.

How You Can Help

If you own or work in an independent grocery store, you already understand the importance of connection and caring. Now’s the time to show support for these three grocery community leaders and the cause they champion.

You can support their team by donating to one or more of their fundraising pages through this link:

👉 Support Our Team

Whether it’s $5 or $50, every donation helps fund research, education, and support services that save lives and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients. Because when grocers unite, we’re stronger than cancer.