Making Strides Against Breast Cancer returns to SDSU Mission Valley

As the American Cancer Society event returns with a new 5K run, SDSU breast cancer survivor Janelle Temnick shares why every step matters.

By Peggy Pico | SDSU NewsCenter 

For Janelle Temnick, the upcoming Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk at SDSU Mission Valley is deeply personal. 

“I couldn't have gotten through cancer without my support system,” said Temnick, director of contracts, and risk management and facilities at San Diego State University’s Aztec Shops. “Walking is my way of saying thank you to the people who stood by my side. If it wasn't for them, maybe I wouldn't be here to do this walk.”

Thousands of survivors, families, friends, and supporters will walk and run at Snapdragon Stadium and SDSU Mission Valley River Park on Sunday, Oct. 18 in the American Cancer Society fundraising event, led by Making Strides of San Diego. This year’s event, which introduces a 5K run alongside its signature walk as an additional way to support the cause, is SDSU’s third year as host.

Like Temnick, some participants will celebrate victories over breast cancer. Others will walk in honor or memory of loved ones. Every step will help support research, advocacy efforts, and patient support programs.

In March 2022, Temnick found a lump and immediately asked her doctor for a mammogram. Within weeks, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Over the next year, she underwent four months of intense chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and five surgeries while raising her two children, who were ages 13 and 10.

“It was a whirlwind,” she said.

Today, Temnick is cancer-free and grateful for every clean six-month checkup. She also became an advocate for listening to your body, early detection, and showing up for others: lessons she carries with her every time she walks in Making Strides. 

“You have to advocate for yourself, and just as important—accept support,” she said. 

During her treatment, Temnick said she found encouragement through the American Cancer Society’s educational resources, support programs and commitment to research. She created a team called “Nobody Fights Alone” to honor the family and friends who supported her through her cancer journey. She has participated in the Making Strides walk ever since. 

“I just felt connected to the American Cancer Society and was grateful for my personal support team as well,” she said.

“Every San Diegan has someone in their lives who has been impacted by breast cancer,”  said Gina Jacobs, SDSU associate vice president, Mission Valley development. “As a community space built to bring people together, we are honored to have the river park at SDSU Mission Valley be the place where our community can celebrate survivors and honor those fighting the disease.”

Last year, more than 15,000 people participated in the walk, making it one of the largest Making Strides events in the region.

"We are excited to bring once again the nation's leading breast cancer movement to San Diego for the 29th year,” said Lou-Anne Eveland, American Cancer Society senior director. “We are grateful to the support of our community, sponsors, and partners who are helping us reach our goal to raise $1 million in support of anyone impacted by breast cancer. 

“These funds help fuel patient support programs such as Road To Recovery and our NCIC 24/7 helpline as well as breakthrough research like  ones being conducted currently at SDSU funded by the American Cancer Society to help end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone." 

Temnick hopes people who have never attended the walk and run will simply sign up and experience being part of “something that is saving lives.”

“You don't even have to walk. Just come out and be part of the cause,” she said. “You never know what someone else is going through. What matters is that we show up for other people, even if they're strangers.” 

Registration for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of San Diego is free, and fundraising is encouraged. Participants can register individually or create a team. For more information about the walk and new 5K run, visit the Making Strides of San Diego website. 

Event Details

• Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026
• Location: SDSU Mission Valley River Park and Snapdragon Stadium
•  7 a.m. 5K run begins
•  8 a.m. walk  begins