Special to UM News

Andria Hanley

UM alumna Andria Hanley was pregnant with her second child when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999. “I was going in for my first prenatal checkup when the doctor felt a lump,” Hanley recalls. “Before my daughter, Kelly, was born, I had a lumpectomy and mastectomy, while also taking care of my 2-year-old daughter, Katie. It was a very scary time for me.”

Sixteen years later, Hanley is cancer-free and getting ready to support research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center by running in her first Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC) on Saturday, February 20, at Sun Life Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Hurricanes. While she enjoys competing in marathons, she considers it a privilege to raise funds for Sylvester by participating in the 5K run. Other DCC options include cycling various distances, including a 72-mile “Perfect Century” ride in honor of the Dolphins’ undefeated season, and becoming a virtual participant.

“I have been actively supporting the nonprofit sector throughout my professional career,” says Hanley, M.A. ’97, who moved to Miami with her family in 1992. Last year, she watched the cyclists and runners in the DCC in her role as vice president of development at Camillus House. “Now I’m looking forward to taking part myself, and hearing the cheers from cancer patients and survivors when I run across the finish line.”

Because cancer can strike anyone, young or old, Hanley understands the importance of the DCC in raising money for Sylvester’s research programs. As a mother, she hopes her daughters won’t have to face the challenge of breast cancer. “The Sylvester team does amazing work, and we are really fortunate to have those expert doctors and researchers here in our backyard,” she says. “All of us who are cancer survivors appreciate your support, and I invite you to take part in this great event and DCC with me!”

For more information or to become a member of Team Hurricanes, please visit Dolphins Cancer Challenge.