HI, I'M Jennifer
Author, breast cancer survivor, coach, and founder of Pearls of Encouragement, LLC.
I always wanted to write a book, I didn't know it would be about breast cancer ...
In 2019, after my second annual mammogram, I was diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer. I was 41. In a flash, I went from being a healthy, homeschooling mom of two high school boys, to being a cancer patient. Instead of planning lessons, I was making treatment decisions. When I finished treatment, I realized that I had a story to tell.
In early 2020, I began writing. I had no idea where it was going, so I didn't tell anyone. The words came quickly as I poured out my emotions, treatment journey, and the knowledge I'd gathered. A few months later, I had the first draft of my manuscript. I'd always thought I had years to pursue my dreams of being an author. Breast cancer had other ideas.
A book with no readers.
As I reread the first draft of my manuscript, I realized that I had a big problem. I had no readers and no online platform. My one social media account had been dark for a few years. Who could I help when I had no readers?
Building a Platform and finding my voice
In spring of 2020, I began building and connecting. I quickly discovered an online community of breast cancer advocates on X (then Twitter). It was simultaneously humbling and encouraging to discover that my voice was one in an orchestra of advocates.
I began writing on my author website, sharing blog posts about breast cancer, well-being, family, and productivity. The more I wrote, the more I honed my voice. In the midst of a global pandemic, I found encouragement and support in the cancer community.
Stage Zero Doesn't Mean Zero Challenges !
My breast cancer was detected at Stage Zero. It was DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ)- non invasive breast cancer.
I was shocked at the diagnosis, but thankful it was caught early. That all changed when my MRI came back with three more findings. Instead of heading into surgery I needed more biopsies.
Suddenly, it got scary and hard. My anxiety and worry were out of control.
It was then I realized that Stage Zero doesn’t means Zero Challenges.
Encouraging you, during and after cancer, with writing, coaching, and advocacy
Whether you have found me at the beginning of your journey, or though our mutual work in the cancer community, I know you'll discover encouragement here!
Encouragement & Education
When life gets hard- like with an unexpected cancer diagnosis- we often feel overwhelmed. I was shocked at how my every thought was about breast cancer. I needed the encouragement from someone who had been there too.
In 2021, I founded Pearls of Encouragement, LLC with the goal of providing support, information, and connection for life's biggest challenges (like an unexpected cancer diagnosis).
Let's walk though it together, one step at a time.
"Recovery is a process, not an event"
I'm all about
Hot coffee, long walks, a good book, anything french, my family, routines, early detection, research, pursuing joy, empowered decision-making, mental and emotional well-being.
I'm not about
Late nights, loud parties, green tea, alternative "treatments", prolonged bitterness, uninformed decision-making.
WE MAY BE
The perfect
fit
if...
- You are newly diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and want to talk to someone who has been there.
- You're beyond treatment and long to pursue joy and well-being, but don't know how.
- You're looking for an encouraging and empowering patient voice for your community or event.
- You would like perspective on your content and brand strategy from a patient voice.
WANT TO KNOW HOW WE CAN WORK TOGETHER
Here's how I can help
If you are an organization or foundation looking to encourage the breast cancer community, I can help. I offer consulting, marketing support, patient partnerships, and content creation. I can also host support sessions, workshops, or speak to your community. Let's make an impact, together!
TELL ME MORE ➡
Newly Diagnosed: From Overwhelmed to Organized
Feeling overwhelmed? Oh, I get it. Join my mailing list, and download my Newly Diagnosed Workbook. It will help you sort through the information, make a plan, and process the emotions!
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