Kyle Swider proudly bears many titles - a mother, a wife, dear friend and coworker. She’s also a 15-year breast cancer survivor and a proud pink warrior.
“I live every day like it’s my last, and I have a zest for life like no other. i just feel blessed every day to get up, and take whatever comes my way," Swider said.
Her cancer was found early in 2001 through a routine mammogram. After beating cancer, Swider, her husband, Jim, and their son, Nick, started volunteering at the Susan G. Komen Detroit Race for the cure. Jim was among the first UPS drivers to bring their trucks to the "stuff check" at the race, distributing water and coffee to runners. It was a great family event every year, until Jim was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2005. Swider said even as he was ill, Jim refused to miss his last race.
“The buddies had to lift him out of the car at that point but he still wanted to be part of the race," she said.
Jim died in 2006. Now, Swider and her son are getting ready to volunteer with their 14th race for the cure, which will be the 25th anniversary celebration for the Komen Detroit Race for the Cure.
The pair continue to be ambassadors in the fight against breast cancer.
“Early detection is what saves lives so we have to get the message out it’s imperative," said Katrina Studvent, director and race-chair for the Komen Detroit Race for the Cure.
Swider's UPS family continues to support her and others impacted by the disease.
Alexa Graham, HR Supervisor at UPS, said she encourages every employee to participate or volunteer.
“Somebody has been affected by their lives, maybe a friend, a coworker, a family member, by breast cancer. So by being a part of the race itself it gives them an opportunity to give back and be involved in a really good cause," she said.
There’s still time to sign up for the race here or you can register on Saturday morning before 9 a.m. at Chene Park.
