Press Release

Congressman Chaffetz, Stephanie Nielsen to be Keynote Speakers at Breast Cancer Luncheon

September 30, 2015

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AMERICAN FORK, UT – Special guests Congressman Jason Chaffetz, bestselling author and blogger Stephanie Nielsen and singer/songwriter Ashley Hess will speak to breast cancer survivors at a special luncheon hosted by Dr. Mark Jensen, Plastic Surgeon with Revere Health on October 5, 2015 from 12:00 to 1:30 pm.

Dr. Mark Jensen and his wife started this luncheon for breast cancer patients several years ago as a way to honor the fight against breast cancer.

“Every patient has a unique life story of courage that inspires us,” Dr. Jensen explained. “We wanted to find a way to recognize what they have overcome. The bond we have with these patients runs deep having walked with them through an extremely difficult time. It is great to see them healthy and stronger people than they were before. This luncheon becomes a reunion of sorts, one that is growing each year.”

This year’s event will include keynote speaker, Congressman Jason Chaffetz. Chaffetz’s mother passed away after a long fight with cancer in 1995. It was the generosity of the Huntsman Cancer Center that initially inspired Chaffetz to become involved in government.

“My mother fought breast cancer for many years,” Chaffetz said. “I saw up close and personal the toll this disease takes on patients and families. We appreciated so much the work of trained professionals who worked hard not only to treat her physical ailments, but also to give emotional support during a very difficult time for our family.”

Bestselling author and blogger Stephanie Nielsen will speak about her experiences undergoing multiple reconstruction surgeries after she was severely burned in a plane crash in 2008.

“I think about myself lying in the hospital, my outlook was so dim. I was sad and lonely and frustrated and in constant pain all the time,” Nielsen said. “I felt ugly and disappointed, but if I could have a glimpse of where I am now, I don’t think I could have let myself weaken. I worked really hard to get here, and am so thankful for a healthy body, no matter the shape it is in. I can take care of my family and see my children grow and live. Living a healthy life looks different to me now, without health, not much matters.”

An important aspect of the annual luncheon is participation in a “pay it forward” project. Each year, attendees put together gift bags for future breast cancer patients. The bags include a small gift from local businesses, as well as cards with an encouraging message from luncheon attendees who are currently on or finishing their breast cancer journey.