Julie Ryan, Haley's mom, will be in Kentucky Oaks Day Breast Cancer Survivor's Parade

Thanks to everyone who voted for Julie!

From Fox 41 News

It has been over three months since Julie Fore Ryan -- a breast cancer survivor -- lost her 8-year-old daughter, Hayley, in an accident involving a suspected drunk driver. Today, Ryan says she's been given a special opportunity to remember Hayley on Oaks Day.

Julie Ryan is among 137 cancer survivors who will take part in this year's KY Oaks Cancer Survivors Parade. Participants will parade around the main track at Churchill Downs prior to the Oaks race, wearing pink to raise awareness for breast cancer. They also get free tickets to watch the Oaks Day races -- and the opportunity to salute a loved one who has passed on.

Ryan said she was nominated for the honor by her employer and longtime friend, Ruthie Maier. Ryan and the other 136 participants were chosen from a larger pool by the public via an online voting pole.

Ryan says she's glad for the recognition, not just for herself, but for her daughter. 

"This means so much to me," she said. "Not only is it an honor for the survivors, but also to Hayley's memory. She stood by me, and kept me going throughout my treatment. I know she will be proud of me that day."

Julie and Haley in last year's breast cancer walk

That said, Ryan said she will miss Hayley on Oaks Day, adding that Hayley often accompanied her on cancer walks when she was battling with her disease.

"We are all trying to continue on with our lives, but with a piece missing," Ryan told Fox41.com. "There isn't a day that goes by, that we don't think of her, and miss her. I just wish she was here to walk with us. This survivor walk is for her."

Maier, Ryan's employer, said that when she heard about the parade, it was a no-brainer that Julie Ryan should be nominated.

"Julie has had such a difficult year that she deserves the recognition," Maier said. "She's had such strength through this, spiritually and mentally and physically. She has just endured what most people couldn't have endured in what's happened to her in less than a year."

Julie Ryan was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2010. She continued to battle the disease throughout the year, until early December, when she learned that she was cancer-free.

"She was looking towards a new beginning," Maier said. "She was finished with that. Then the accident occurred, and she was faced with another tragic situation in her life. The
tragedy of the loss of her daughter was far greater than the cancer news."

Haley and Julie

Hayley Ryan was killed on the night of Friday, Dec. 17, when the vehicle she was riding in was struck by a suspected drunk driver. Julie, her husband Rick, and Hayley were traveling to Cullman, Ala. to celebrate the holidays and the good news of Julie's positive prognosis.

That's when the vehicle the family was traveling in was struck by 45-year-old Kenneth Burns of Cullman, Ala. Burns was arrested and has been charged with DUI. Hayley died instantly. Julie Ryan suffered six broken ribs and a head injury. Julie's husband Rick continues to recover from a head injury.

Maier said the parade will give her and Julie an opportunity to draw strength from other survivors.

"Julie and I are hoping to meet some of these courageous women who were nominated and selected to go."