Miami Cancer Survivor Uses Swimming to Aid Her Recovery
The 49-year-old raised over $2,000 for the American Cancer Society after finishing her radiation treatment.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Cancer
After a stage 2 breast cancer diagnosis in February 2024, Miami resident Vianney De Los Angeles is using swimming to manage her recovery and promote awareness. Her efforts helped a team raise over $2,000 for the American Cancer Society during a July 2025 event.
Why it matters
Sharing personal cancer journeys encourages neighbors to prioritize regular screenings and highlights the role of physical activity in managing treatment-related side effects like joint pain. Consistent exercise is medically associated with improved recovery outcomes for patients undergoing long-term therapy.
Local breast cancer patients face a 70 percent five-year survival rate, with stage 1 and 2 hormone receptor-positive cases showing a greater than 90 percent 10-year outlook. The efficacy of managing joint pain through three to six hours of weekly exercise remains a key clinical benchmark.
The players
Vianney De Los Angeles
A 49-year-old Miami resident and cancer survivor who uses competitive swimming to manage her treatment recovery.
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
The Miami-based medical facility where the patient underwent a breast-conserving lumpectomy and radiation therapy.
American Cancer Society
The national nonprofit organization that received over $2,000 in funds from the swimmer's July 2025 charity event.
The details
Vianney De Los Angeles, treated at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, completed 20 rounds of radiation and is currently following a five-year hormone therapy plan. To combat joint pain associated with her medication, she participates in early morning swim sessions. Her team of 30 swimmers covered 8,000 meters each during their July 2025 fundraiser, contributing to a total of over $2,000 raised for the American Cancer Society.
Timeline
February 2024: Vianney De Los Angeles received her initial cancer diagnosis.
July 2025: A team of swimmers completed a 5-mile charity fundraiser.
October 17, 2026: Susan G. Komen and Making Strides walks are scheduled.
October 24, 2026: The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Miami walk takes place.
Beyond the 305
The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Miami walk serves as the regional framework for local advocacy and fundraising efforts. This grassroots swim effort extends that annual momentum by highlighting the importance of long-term physical activity in patient recovery.
Patients dealing with hormone-blocking medication side effects may find symptom relief through sustained physical activity, such as swimming. Engaging with local charity walks scheduled for late October provides residents an opportunity to support ongoing regional cancer research.
The takeaway
Focusing on consistent, low-impact exercise like swimming can be a vital component of managing long-term treatment side effects. Keep track of your own screening schedule and consider participating in local advocacy events like the walk on October 24, 2026.
What happens next
Residents can participate in the upcoming Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Miami walk scheduled for October 24, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local support and clinical resources in our Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Miami Herald.
