Facing a breast cancer risk is deeply personal, but it can also inspire incredible resilience and community connection. In this episode of the Healthful Woman podcast, Jordanna Nadritch, President of Sharsheret’s Board of Directors, shares her journey of advocacy, leadership, and personal growth after navigating her own preventative surgeries and cancer risk.
Finding Sharsheret and Wanting to Make a Difference
Jordanna explains how she first became involved with Sharsheret, a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting women, men, and families affected by breast and ovarian cancer. “I saw the energy and the staff, and I heard more about what they were doing. Everyone there loves what they do because they are helping people,” Jordanna shares.
Sharsheret provides support to anyone who reaches out, regardless of background or financial need. They offer financial subsidies (over a million dollars annually) for necessities such as cold caps during chemotherapy, hair and eyebrow restoration, and nipple tattooing after surgery. Their programs cover every stage, from initial screening to post-treatment support, including emotional and psychosocial care.
Giving Back on a Personal Level
Inspired to help on a hands-on level, Jordanna and three other women founded Power Pals, a subset of Sharsheret. They created personalized gift bags for women undergoing surgery, including items like sweatshirts, drain holders, and gift cards to local services. These bags, thoughtfully designed based on patient feedback, allowed the women to connect personally with Sharsheret’s community while addressing real patient needs.
“Sharsheret was open to our ideas and helped us make it happen. I love being part of something that grows, listens to feedback, and truly supports women,” Jordanna explains.
The Meaning of “Sharsheret”
The name Sharsheret translates to “link” or “chain.” Jordanna reflects on the dual significance of the word: the genetic links that carry cancer risk and the links between people who support one another. “Everyone I know seems connected to Sharsheret in some way; either helped or helping. You’re growing not just the link of cancer, but a link of support,” she says.
Sharing Her Story Publicly
For many years, Jordanna kept her personal story private. Over time, she began to share it gradually with friends and through her involvement with Sharsheret. Two years ago, she publicly shared her journey in a video during an annual recognition event. “It was liberating to share my story,” she recalls. “My only regret is not doing it sooner.”
Sharsheret also guided her in discussing her health with her children. Her daughters learned about her surgeries at appropriate times and understood the proactive steps their mother had taken to protect their family. This openness gave Jordanna’s children confidence and a sense of safety about their own future health.
Learning Strength, Perspective, and Gratitude
Reflecting on her journey, Jordanna emphasizes the personal growth she experienced. “I’m much stronger than I thought I was. Facing these challenges taught me resilience and gave me perspective and gratitude for life,” she says. She also highlights the importance of sharing her story to support others: “If my experience helps someone feel they’re not alone and can get through this, that’s a win.”
Learn More
Jordanna’s story demonstrates the profound impact of support, advocacy, and community in navigating cancer risk. Organizations like Sharsheret not only provide practical and emotional resources but also empower women and families to take proactive steps for their health.
To hear Jordanna’s full journey and insights, listen to the complete Healthful Woman podcast episode, Jordanna’s Story, Part Two. For more information about Sharsheret or to get involved, visit Sharsheret.org.
