In the early 1990s, a lack of information about breast cancer diagnosis and the impact of the disease added to the risk women and their families faced from the illness itself. Jane has undertaken a whole array of projects to help provide a solution to the problem. For example, Jane and two other women decided to take action by writing a pamphlet called Life Choices. Written for those whose lives breast cancer had impacted, Jane brought a sensitivity based upon her similar experience as a cancer patient and survivor.

Jane helped develop a program called Moving Ahead, which provides information on the various types of breast cancer, treatment options, and available support. She attended every session to tell her own story and offer support to newly diagnosed patients. Jane continues visiting hospitalized women and follows up with women in the post-surgery phase of their treatment. Jane has participated in a focus group for development of a specialized program, Living Room Cancer Resource Center, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

The Living Room offers a comfortable, calming atmosphere in which individuals can obtain information regarding cancer treatment as they await their family member or loved one to receive treatment. In 1992, some two short years after her own diagnosis and treatment began, Jane volunteered to participate as a Cansurmount volunteer, visiting newly-diagnosed patients in the hospital and following up by phone. Shortly thereafter, Jane joined a focus group for the development of the Piper Breast Center, as well as for the Resource Center. She has donated furniture to make the spaces more home-like and less threatening, as hospitals and institutions can often seem.

For over a decade, Jane’s generous spirit and positive presence has improved a difficult situation for hundreds of women and their families. Jane Griffin continues to give generously of her time, talent, and her ever-positive attitude, providing comfort and hope to help women with cancer. In doing so, Jane has also helped many a patient’s loved ones and families deal with the most difficult of times one can ever experience in a lifetime.

To learn more about Jane and her cause, and how you can make a difference, please write to:

Virginia Piper Cancer Institute
Piper Building
913 East 26th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55407

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