It was 2016 when Jennifer Greenhut’s life journey took an unexpected turn. The vibrant actress, singer, and newlywed’s world was about to change drastically.
Jennifer realized that her dream of starting a family would not come true. The next challenge she would face would test her commitment to the vow of “through sickness and in health.”
Jennifer was among the increasing number of new cases of breast cancer diagnosed each year. The American Cancer Society reports that one in eight women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. It is the most common cancer in women in the U.S., accounting for about 30% of all new female cancers annually.
However, what shocked Jennifer the most was learning the origin of her diagnosis. “My mom thought it was hereditary,” she said. “Both my sister and my mom tested for it and they didn’t have it. Eventually, my dad tested positive for it. So, I inherited it from my dad, and many people are unaware that men can carry it.”
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Each parent can carry the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene, which play a role in repairing damaged DNA. However, certain variants of these genes can be lethal.
Despite facing a tough battle, Jennifer remained positive during her fight against the aggressive disease. But with each doctor visit, her hope for survival diminished until she met the third doctor.
In January 2017, Jennifer started chemotherapy, and by May, she was declared cancer-free. “May 24th is always a special day,” she said.
Seven years later, Jennifer has established a new business and foundation to help women in a similar situation. The foundation creates merchandise to support cancer fighters, with proceeds going towards cancer research at UCLA’s Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation.
Through her foundation, Jennifer shares the lessons she learned and co-authored a memoir with her husband in 2022 called “Everyone Needs a Larry.”
“I think most people are more prepared to be a caregiver than they know,” Larry said. “The most important thing is to show up and be there for your loved one.”
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The couple’s book emphasizes the patience and understanding required for a spouse to support a sick partner. It showcases how love can help navigate difficult times together.
“It was a challenging period, but we can look back and laugh about it now,” Jennifer said. “It’s about understanding the depth of love and support.”
Through written expressions of love, Jennifer and Larry grew closer. Jennifer believes that her past struggles have shaped her into the person she is today – now more than seven years cancer-free.
“Having stage four cancer was a turning point for me because I now trust that every experience in life, good or bad, has a purpose. Being alive means overcoming many obstacles,” she said.
