In March 2016, Staten Island resident Deanna Jean faced a life-altering challenge when she discovered a lump in her breast during her third pregnancy. Despite having no family history of cancer, her instincts told her something was wrong. At 34 and midway through her pregnancy, Jean was diagnosed with Stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma, a particularly aggressive form of breast cancer. Her journey underscores the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.
Jean recalls, “I found my own lump and brought it to my OB here on Staten Island, who had delivered my first two kids. I had to go back six times before he agreed to have me imaged. Once I was finally diagnosed, he was mortified.” Recognizing the seriousness of her condition, her obstetrician recommended that she seek specialized treatment outside of Staten Island. Jean ultimately received care at the Monter Cancer Center, now known as the Zuckerberg Cancer Center. “It was such a rare case—being pregnant and having breast cancer,” she added. At the time, the likelihood of a pregnant woman being diagnosed with breast cancer was just 0.03%.
Empowering Women Through Advocacy
Jean’s experience has evolved into a powerful message about self-advocacy, particularly for women of color who often encounter difficulties in being heard within medical environments. “Trust your gut,” she emphasizes. “You know your body better than anyone. Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself. And if a doctor refuses to take your concerns seriously, ask them to document it in your file. That’s what changed everything with my OB.” This insistence on accountability proved crucial in her diagnosis and treatment.
Now a board member of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden and a respected leader in business, Jean leverages her platform to empower others. Her story has gained national attention, featured in outlets such as ABC News and Essence, highlighting the critical need for individuals to trust their instincts and advocate for their health.
Life Beyond Cancer
Originally from Brooklyn, Jean has lived in Staten Island for nearly two decades. “When it was time to buy a home in 2006, the two affordable options were Staten Island and the Bronx—so it wasn’t much of a competition. We’ve been here ever since,” she said. Following a successful career in tech sales, Jean launched her own business in 2019, allowing her to work from home. “I’ve worked remotely since 2008,” she explained. Her professional journey has included collaborations with influential figures, including Tina Knowles, stemming from her feature in an ABC7 News special aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer.
Today, Jean is in remission, having celebrated nearly 10 years of being cancer-free. “Thank God,” she said with relief. Discussions about health in the Black community have historically been muted, especially regarding breast cancer. However, that silence is beginning to break. An increasing number of women are openly discussing the physical and emotional realities of their experiences, which is essential in a landscape where breast cancer affects Black women at disproportionately high rates.
Recent studies indicate that about 40% of Black breast cancer survivors experience significant anxiety, and approximately one in five report symptoms of depression following their diagnosis. For Jean, these statistics resonate deeply. “My first thought was fear, because I didn’t want to leave my two boys and husband so prematurely,” she shared. Her narrative reflects a common reality among survivors: the uncertainty, the emotional toll of treatment, and the strength required to persevere.
Now, Jean’s children—aged 16, 14, and 9—have witnessed their mother’s resilience. “When I was diagnosed, my sons were four and five, and I was pregnant with my daughter,” she recalled. Her oldest son is currently a sophomore at Susan Wagner High School, while her second son is a freshman at St. Peter’s, and her daughter is in fourth grade at Notre Dame Academy.
Jean’s journey illustrates the importance of listening to one’s body and advocating for personal health. “I was fortunate to have connections who helped me reach medical directors at top cancer centers within 24 hours,” she said. “But even Sloan Kettering told me they couldn’t treat me because they didn’t have a maternal-fetal specialist at the time. We searched everywhere and were relieved to find care on Long Island.”
Continuing her advocacy for health equity, Jean actively participates in events and mentors individuals undergoing similar health challenges. “I’m just glad to share my story—it’s so important, especially here on Staten Island,” she stated. Her experience serves as a testament to perseverance, faith, and the power of self-advocacy—crucial messages that resonate with women everywhere.
