Ronnie Connolly, a retired teacher and Orange County resident, is celebrating a major milestone—20 years of being cancer-free.

This year, she’s been named the Hudson Valley Survivor ambassador for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fundraiser, a role that honors her resilience and commitment to supporting others facing the disease.

Connolly was diagnosed with breast cancer when her daughter was just 2 years old. She says her family, especially her daughter, was her greatest motivation during treatment.

“When I went through my cancer, my daughter was only two years old. And I didn't know if I was going to be here 20 years later,” Connolly said. “My biggest goal was to make sure I got to see her graduate high school—and I did.”

Now cancer-free, Connolly is using her platform to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. She’s set a goal of raising $20,000—$1,000 for each year she’s been cancer-free.

“They’re going to find a cure,” she said. “And I really feel like they're on the precipice of that. But we need the funding to continue those studies.”

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 42,000 women are expected to die from breast cancer this year. Approximately 30% of all new cancer cases in women are breast cancer.

Connolly says her mission now is to give back to the community that supported her through her journey.

“This whole mission is for me, for in these 20 years. Just to give back, because so many people have given to me throughout the process.”

The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk will take place this October at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets.