2026 ILT Mom Honoree

Jennifer Sia

My name is Jenni Sia. I am a current PhD student, an analyst for a logistics company, and most proudly, the mother of four incredible children. I am the mom of my son Luciano, forever 19; my identical twin daughters, Michaela and Briella, age 15; and my youngest daughter, Suzanna, age 2. My children are my purpose, my strength, and my reason for continuing forward each day. I also have an incredible husband, Brian, who has been my rock through every chapter of my journey—offering unwavering love, strength, and support when I needed it most. In the quiet moments, I find peace in crocheting, and I proudly embrace my role as a band mom.

In December 2021, I found a lump, and on January 27, 2022, at the age of 33, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My treatment included surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. During this time, I remained committed to my education—completing my bachelor’s degree while undergoing treatment, moving on to earn my MBA, and in 2025, beginning my PhD journey. Continuing my education during one of the most difficult periods of my life became a powerful reminder that cancer would not define or limit my future.

Inspiring Life Together was there for me from the very beginning of my cancer journey. They supported not only me, but my children as well—helping them feel normal, safe, and understood by surrounding them with other children whose mothers were also facing breast cancer. That sense of community meant more than I can ever put into words.

Six months after completing treatment, my life was forever changed when my eldest son, Luciano—whom I had at the age of 16—suddenly passed away due to a seizure. Once again, Inspiring Life Together stood beside me and my children. They provided a shoulder to cry on, compassion without conditions, and a sense of family when our world felt shattered.

Breast cancer and the loss of my son taught me something profound: I was a survivor long before these moments of hardship, and I needed to learn not just how to endure, but how to truly live. I no longer define myself simply as a survivor. I am a champion—of waking up every day, of continuing forward, and of choosing hope even when it feels impossible.

Today, I am deeply committed to supporting breast cancer awareness, while also advocating for epilepsy awareness and SUDEP (Sudden Death in Epileptic Patients) in honor of my son. Inspiring Life Together has become more than an organization to me and my surviving children—it is family. The personal care, compassion, and genuine connection offered by its members have changed our lives.

I have dedicated the remainder of my life to telling my story, spreading positivity, and reminding others that even in life’s darkest moments, there is still purpose, connection, and light.