'Shock' Woman Runs with Chest Fully Exposed 'In Front of a Large Crowd'... Turns Out There Was a Deep Story Behind It

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

An American businesswoman and influencer who underwent a mastectomy while battling breast cancer has become the center of attention after completing a marathon with her top off, exposing her chest.

Overseas media outlets, including Newsweek, reported on the 2nd (Korean time) that "Lauren Spizza, a businesswoman and influencer from New Jersey, USA, participated in the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon held on the 1st without a top, completing the 42.195 km course with a time of 4 hours, 54 minutes, and 04 seconds."

Why did she participate in the marathon without a top? There was a special reason.

In an interview, Spizza stated, "I thought this marathon was the most suitable stage to convey my message. The hospital where I received treatment for breast cancer was located along the marathon course."

At this event, Spizza ran the course wearing orange leggings. However, she did not wear a sports bra, exposing her chest with the scars from her mastectomy.

Spizza emphasized, "I wanted to show it in front of as many people as possible. It was never for sexual purposes or to cater to the male gaze. Quite the opposite. It was about taking charge of our health. I stepped forward for my health and that of all women."

She continued, "It was when I changed clothes in the locker room for the first time after my mastectomy. Without realizing it, I hunched over to hide my chest. I felt shame. But I did not want to hide from the world because of that shame."

She further added, "This scar is a medical mark left behind to save my life and a badge of honor for having fought and won against cancer," expressing joy as she said, "While running the marathon, I noticed that quite a few people were shocked when I passed by. However, even more cheers and support poured in. I achieved my goal."

Spizza was diagnosed with Stage 1 and Stage 2 breast cancer in November 2024 at the age of 31. Subsequently, she underwent 16 sessions of chemotherapy and 8 sessions of immunotherapy, respectively, as well as a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery.

She also posted images on her personal social networking service (SNS) showing her chest with the scars still visible. In this photo, she stated, "One in eight women in the United States may develop breast cancer. Breast cancer does not discriminate by age, gender, or race. You must take active steps for your own health," recommending that people get screenings and medical treatment.

In New York State, USA, it is legally permitted for women to remove their tops in public places. Accordingly, Spizza was able to carry out her plan after explaining it to the medical staff. The medical staff also reportedly supported her campaign.

Meanwhile, Spizza is reported to have been inspired by this campaign from British female runner Louise Bernadette Butcher. Louise also underwent a mastectomy due to breast cancer. She remains the Guinness World Record holder for completing the London Marathon in 2023 with the fastest marathon time among women who had undergone bilateral mastectomies.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original