OCEAN CITY — Jennifer Neeb, a three-year breast cancer survivor and long-time Komen Maryland supporter, has been named the Honorary New Balance Team Member for the 5^th Annual 2016 Ocean City Race for the Cure on Saturday, April 16.

At each Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, a survivor is selected from the local community who has made a difference in the fight against breast cancer for this special recognition from New Balance, a national Komen Race for the Cure Series Sponsor.

Neeb will be provided with New Balance racing gear and be recognized on the main stage at the Ocean City Inlet on Race Day.

In 2013, Neeb was diagnosed with a type of breast cancer know as Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS). Having lost her step-mother to a 15-year battle with breast cancer that subsequently spread throughout her body, she pursued the most aggressive treatment possible. After surgery, doctors found that the cancer was limited to the removed breast tissue and had not spread to other organs.

After medical procedures and three subsequent reconstructive surgeries, the wife and mother of two is forever thankful for the overwhelming, but empowering journey. She is captain of a top team, “Jennifer’s Rockets” at the Ocean City Race for the Cure and her husband, Barry, is an active volunteer and a race committee member.

“Why was I selected to represent cancer survivors?” asks Neeb. “Perhaps it was to offer encouragement to those just receiving their diagnosis … not all cancer diagnoses demand the same price for survival. Early detection and healthy lifestyle choices might mean the difference in the price you, or a loved one, might pay to be able to claim that you are a ‘cancer survivor.’”

New Balance is celebrating over 25 years of partnership with Susan G. Komen and to recognize breast cancer survivors.

More than 2,000 people are expected to attend the Ocean City Race for the Cure on April 16, which features a 5K timed and recreational run/walk on the Boardwalk in Ocean City beginning and ending at the inlet parking lot. Funds raised at the Race support national breast cancer research and breast health programs.

For more information on the Race or to register, visit www.oc.komenmd.org.