Jane's Story
Jane was diagnosed with ovarian cancer when she was 57 years old. She had no symptoms; no telltale signs; one day it was just there. She survived 15 short months, dying in 1997 at the age of 58. Jane was very aware of the devastating effects of ovarian cancer, having lost both her mother and grandmother to the disease. Following her mother’s death, she actively tried to find as much information as possible about ovarian cancer, but that was a challenge. Throughout her treatments, Jane said she wanted to find a way to help other women “once I have this thing licked, so they don’t have to go through this.” She didn’t know how, but she wanted to help point women in the right direction for information and resources. Though she herself was not able to fulfill her goal, it was because of her vision that her family founded the Jane Cremer Foundation.
Our History
The Jane Cremer Foundation focus is to “educate women in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer”. Our first program, focused on ovarian cancer, was held April 1998 at the Racine Prairie School auditorium with an audience of 350. That was the first of 21 years of free programming for the women of Southeastern Wisconsin. With strong support of the medical community and our dedicated volunteers, the Jane Cremer programs have reached over 20,000 women in the fight against cancer and made a difference in their lives. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to so many that have helped us in our work. Thank you for being with us and for helping us make a difference.
A New Beginning
Time passes, things change and the Jane Cremer is no exception to that. We need to continue to find new and innovative ways to reach and help women with health issues that impact their lives. After much consideration, debate, and soul searching the Jane Cremer is making two significant changes as we move forward;
- Broadening our scope -- Our new focus is educating women in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases that have a significant impact on their lives.
- Becoming a grantor – Several years ago, the Jane Cremer Foundation established a fund at the Racine Community Foundation with the objective of providing funds to help continue our work. Through becoming a grantor, we can help others who wish to make a difference by helping women in Southeastern Wisconsin. The Racine Community Foundation has very successfully managed this process for many, many years, and we are very proud to be associated with them. For details about available grants, please contact the Racine Community Foundation (www.racinecommunityfoundation.org).
As the Jane Cremer Foundation begins its new direction our goal remains unchanged -- to make a lasting positive impact in the lives of the women of Southeast Wisconsin.
