Racing With Purpose
One of the most meaningful parts of this season has been the opportunity to connect with fans and hear the stories behind what the pink No. 28 car represents to them. As an athlete ambassador for Susan G. Komen, Max has had the privilege of inviting fans to join him in the Race for the Cure, inspiring young fans through a pink race car that carries a much deeper purpose while creating opportunities for parents, families, and generations of fans to share the stories of survivors, loved ones, and those affected by breast cancer. These connections have made every race about something bigger than the finish line, reminding Max of the strength, courage, and resilience of the community he proudly represents. It's moments like these that inspire us all to be a little braver, push a little harder, and race a little faster toward a world without breast cancer.
Julie Winans
“I used to be fearful of trying new things or going places, and now I face life in a different manner. I’m braver, I know I’m worth it, and I try to live life to the fullest.”
Julie Winans is a five-year breast cancer survivor whose journey began when she discovered a lump that ultimately led to her diagnosis. That same week, her mother was diagnosed with leukemia, beginning simultaneous cancer journeys made even more difficult by the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During treatment, Julie faced serious complications, including sepsis and pneumonia, and had to relearn how to walk and talk before continuing with chemotherapy, reconstructive surgery and radiation. Through the support of family, friends, medical professionals and fellow survivors, she found the raw strength to keep pushing forward.
Five years later, Julie says the experience has changed the way she approaches life. She is more willing to face her fears, try new things and embrace opportunities, which came to fruition this weekend during a two-seater hot lap where Julie put on a firesuit and helmet and took a ride around Portland International Raceway while visiting Max and #TeamTaylor with Algas-SDI.
“It was an honor and a continued eye opener to spend the week with Julie. She's tough, full of courage and honesty, and a good spirit. People love the pink car, and to be honest however much others love it, I probably love it even more. For me it's a consistent way to advocate for these fighters and spread the word about the importance of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. I know several people who have had their own journeys with cancer, and it's something that I do not take lightly. Julie really left an impression on all of us this weekend.”
Drive for the Cure
This one meant a lot. After a season spent talking to breast cancer survivors as an athlete ambassador for Susan G. Komen, and telling everyone to root for the pink car, Max brought Drive for the Cure to the season finale. Every signature on the exclusive Drive for the Cure car was a signature supporting the fight against breast cancer, and fans came out to sign it in person at the Honda activation in the Fan Zone all weekend long.
Huge thanks to Fresno Acura and DealerWorks for time dedicated to making this happen, and to Honda Racing for hosting the activation in the Fan Zone. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to add a signature, including friends from Andretti and the paddock who showed up to support the cause.