My Story as a Breast Cancer Survivor - and How I Found Strength in Pink
- Joclynn Johnson
- Oct 28
- 3 min read
By Joclynn Johnson, Founder of Old Main Gem Co.
Life has a way of throwing curveballs you never see coming. For me, one of those curveballs arrived in the form of a breast cancer diagnosis. It was a moment that shook my world, challenging every fiber of my being and reshaping my perspective on strength, resilience, and the preciousness of life.
The journey through treatment, recovery, and the emotional aftermath was, to put it mildly, intense. There were days filled with fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty. But amidst the challenges, there were also moments of profound clarity and unexpected beauty. I discovered a strength I never knew I possessed, fueled by the love of my family, friends, and the incredible medical community.
Finding My "Pink"
During this time, the color pink took on a deeply personal meaning. It wasn't just a ribbon; it became a symbol of hope, courage, and the powerful community of breast cancer survivors. It represented the fight, the resilience, and the unwavering spirit to keep moving forward.
As a jeweler, my passion has always been to create pieces that tell a story, that mark a moment, or that serve as a personal talisman. After my own journey, I felt a strong calling to create something that could embody this newfound strength, not just for myself, but for other breast cancer survivors and those who support them.
Why I Created the Strength in Pink Collection
After my treatment ended, I promised myself one thing: I would use my story to empower others.
So I created the Strength in Pink Collection — a line of jewelry that represents not only survival, but resilience, femininity, and the soft power of hope. Each piece features radiant blush-pink moissanite, hand-selected for its warmth, brilliance, and symbolic connection to the fight against breast cancer.
This collection is for the warriors. For the women in recovery. For the friends and family who want to show their love and support.
If you're looking for meaningful breast cancer survivor gifts or simply something to wear as a daily reminder of your own strength, this collection was made for you.
My 3 Favorite Pieces
Here are three of the designs that hold a special place in my heart, and in the hearts of the many women who now wear them with pride:
A graceful, modern twist on the classic awareness ribbon, this necklace is powerful and deeply symbolic.
Set in polished sterling silver, the blush moissanite accents catch the light with a soft glow, a tribute to both survivors and those still in the fight.
These hoops are bold and so are the women who wear them.
The blush-pink moissanite lining each sterling silver hoop adds just the right amount of sparkle. Every time I wear them, I’m reminded that strength can be loud, joyful, and unapologetically feminine.
This ring was designed to represent transformation - from diagnosis to healing to rediscovering beauty.
With a brilliant pink moissanite center and delicate diamond-accented split band, it’s a piece that whispers strength and elegance all in one.
Wear Your Story — or Honor Hers
Whether you're a survivor, currently in treatment, or supporting someone who is, the Strength in Pink collection is a way to wear your journey proudly — or to gift someone a beautiful, lasting reminder of their courage.
You can explore the full Strength in Pink Collection here.
From One Survivor to Another
I know how it feels to lose control of your body, your hair, your plans, your identity. But I also know how it feels to reclaim it - piece by piece.
This collection is a part of that reclamation. It’s a way to celebrate not just surviving, but living.
If you're looking for breast cancer survivor jewelry that carries real meaning, I hope you’ll find something here that speaks to your strength — or the strength of someone you love.
With love and resilience,
Survivor, Designer, Storyteller
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