June 1st marks National Cancer Survivors Day, a moment to honor the strength, courage, and resilience of those who have faced cancer and continue to thrive. At the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation, we know that survivorship is more than just a milestone; it’s a powerful testament to progress, community, and the lifesaving impact of research.
Today, we’re honored to spotlight Jenny Stevens—breast cancer survivor, proud mother, and dedicated Lynn Sage board member. Jenny’s journey reflects the very heart of our mission: advancing innovative breast cancer research while building a community of hope and support. Her story reminds us why we do what we do and why we must keep going.
Jenny shares what National Cancer Survivors Day means to her, why she’s so passionate about supporting research, and how you can join her in making an impact.
June 1 is National Cancer Survivors Day. What does this day mean to you, personally?
It’s a day that reminds me to be grateful for every moment, and to celebrate strength, resilience, and community.
It’s also a day to celebrate how far we’ve come, and a reminder of why we keep going. I sometimes joke that I joined the “big pink sorority” when I got my breast cancer diagnosis, but the truth is, no one chooses this path. Still, once you’re in, you’re surrounded by the most powerful, inspiring community of survivors and supporters. I consider myself a thriver, and I’m here because of the research, the care, and the people who never gave up on finding a better way.
I’m proud to be part of a powerful circle of survivors, and I want others facing breast cancer to know they’re never alone.
You’ve been open about your breast cancer journey. What inspired you to share your story?
Because stories connect us. When I was diagnosed, I didn’t want to feel alone. When I learned about my diagnosis, I couldn’t believe how many other women had experienced breast cancer or knew someone who was or had gone through it. And now I know how important it is to show others that they aren’t alone. I share my story for other survivors, for families who’ve been touched by breast cancer—and most of all, for my daughters. I want them to live in a world where this isn’t their fight to face.
I also wanted to destigmatize “having cancer”. My dad died of a brain tumor and it wasn’t curable. He was 49 when he was diagnosed and it was a death sentence – he died a year later. My cancer was treatable and I feel lucky and privileged to have survived it.
Why is supporting breast cancer research through Lynn Sage so important to you?
Because research saves lives. Funding innovative breast cancer research and supporting the doctors behind it is the only way we move forward so fewer people have to go through what I did. I want a future where my daughters, Liza and Brooke, and everyone’s daughters, don’t have to live with this threat.
Why did you decide to join the Lynn Sage board?
I wanted to take action—not just for me, but for the people I love and for the future we all deserve. Lynn Sage funds the kind of innovative, forward-thinking research that has the potential to change lives. It’s not just about awareness, it’s about impact. And I’m proud to be part of that.
Lynn Sage is hosting a virtual trunk show with Jane Win Jewelry from June 1–8. Can you tell us more about the collaboration and the pieces in the trunk show?
Jane Win creates beautiful pieces that are full of meaning and hope. The coins and charms in this collection represent strength, hope, and love—everything someone facing cancer holds onto. They make beautiful gifts, whether you’re honoring someone’s journey or celebrating your own. When I wear mine, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come.
Partnering with Jane Win to support Lynn Sage is the perfect blend of beauty, purpose, and giving back. You’re not just buying something beautiful, you’re funding something powerful. Every purchase helps Lynn Sage continue to fund the research that gave me, and so many others, a second chance. It’s a meaningful way to give back, and to wear or give something that carries real purpose.
