Thriving after Cancer: Jina Peiris, Breast Cancer Survivor

Saath commends Jina on her dedication to assisting cancer survivors in Los Angeles. Her endeavor to provide hope and support to survivors and their families during the most difficult times exemplifies Saath’s concept of Saathi, someone who, during this difficult time is with you EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. Jina was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 47. Since then, she has been an active volunteer for the American Cancer Society. Through her experience as a volunteer, she discovered her experience was not unique and that many women diagnosed with breast cancer faced tremendous adversities. As a result, Jina co-founded Saath which aims to provide support to South Asians from cancer diagnosis to treatment to survivorship. Today, Jina has overcome breast cancer and is not only surviving, but thriving and contributing to the community. She has taken a bold step towards raising awareness about breast cancer among South Asian communities by empowering women to speak out on a topic that has been misunderstood and considered “unspeakable.” Jina’s life was turned upside down, but in a matter of few years has been able to turn it around and contribute her time and experience to survivors and their loved ones all over the U.S. We salute your efforts, Jina! For more of Jina’s story, visit www.livestrong.org.