Our Story

CoastBusters was founded by neighbors and friends Jeanette Campagna and Sonia Graham on the Oregon Coast after both were diagnosed with breast cancer just months apart in late 2019 and early 2020. What began as two separate and unexpected journeys grew into a bond rooted in friendship and a shared sense of hope.

Jeanette was diagnosed in November 2019 following a routine mammogram that led to several difficult biopsies and the discovery of three cancerous tumors. She underwent a unilateral mastectomy in February 2020 and reconstructive surgery during the early months of the COVID pandemic in May 2020. Following surgery, Jeanette faced more than a year of physical therapy due to a frozen shoulder and loss of mobility. After completing five years of preventative cancer medication, she celebrated six years cancer-free in February 2026.

Sonia’s journey began in February 2020 after discovering a lump during a routine self-exam. By the end of March, doctors confirmed aggressive breast cancer involving two tumors and impacted lymph nodes. Sonia underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy beginning in April 2020, followed by a lumpectomy, complete lymph node dissection, and 33 rounds of radiation, which she completed in January 2021. She later entered remission.

Although Sonia and Jeanette had crossed paths through community events over the years, their cancer journeys truly brought them together. During a time marked by isolation, uncertainty, and fear, they became one another’s support system and source of strength. As they focused on healing, they also felt called to give back to the community and medical teams that had supported them throughout their journeys.

In 2021, they created the CoastBusters Walk for Breast Cancer with the hope of turning something incredibly difficult into something meaningful for others. What was originally intended to be a one-time event quickly grew into an annual, beloved community tradition. After two successful years in Newport, the walk expanded to Florence, bringing even more survivors, families, and supporters from across the Oregon Coast together in one community.

 

Through its first four years, CoastBusters raised nearly $150,000 to support local breast cancer patients and their families throughout Lincoln County and coastal Lane County. Funds raised remain local and help assist with transportation, lodging, groceries, medical-related travel, and everyday expenses so patients can focus on healing.

In October 2024, shortly after the Florence walk, Sonia passed away following a recurrence of her breast cancer. Her loss was deeply felt throughout the community she cared for so much. The way Sonia supported and uplifted others continues to guide the heart of CoastBusters today.

In 2025, CoastBusters paused its walks to grieve and focus on strengthening the organization’s foundation. During that time, CoastBusters officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, a milestone that stands as part of Sonia’s lasting legacy and vision.

The 2026 walks will proudly be known as the “Comeback Walk in Memory of Sonia Graham,” honoring her spirit and the incredible impact she made on so many lives.

At its heart, CoastBusters is about community. It is about survivors, families, caregivers, friends, and those walking in support of loved ones. Jeanette and the CoastBusters team remain committed to carrying forward the mission she and Sonia built together, ensuring that every step taken continues to support local breast cancer patients and their families.

Every stride makes a difference.