Diann H. Smith a retired health care executive has a passion for making an impact on women with breast cancer. In 2008, Diann was diagnosed with breast cancer and four years later, her daughter was also diagnosed. With her first-hand experience with the illness, Diann was able to support her daughter in a truly significant way and reinforce the powerful mother-daughter bond. During her daughter’s journey they chose to forego the traditional “bucket list” and instead focused on their “living list,” because it’s all about living and pursuing one’s purpose. Diann was by her daughter’s side when she transitioned in 2017.

While this was one of the most difficult periods in Diann’s life, it strengthens her resolve to be the light of hope and strength for other women. Understanding the impact that cancer has not only on the individual diagnosed but also the effect on families and friends of cancer patients, Diann is playing an active role in helping women diagnosed with breast cancer navigate through their personal journey with hope and perseverance.