October often brings a wave of pink ribbons and reminders to schedule checkups, but for many who’ve faced breast cancer, awareness month hits differently. For Debbie Zolan and Jacquelynn Rossiter of The Zolan Rossiter Team at Compass, October is a time to reflect, not on the illness itself, but on what comes after. Both are survivors/thrivers, but their paths forward look nothing alike, and that’s exactly the point.
For Debbie, survivorship has been about moving forward.
“When treatment ended, I didn’t want breast cancer to define me,” she says. “Work helped me keep my focus. I stayed busy, surrounded by people, and that gave me energy. Everyone handles recovery differently, and for me, getting back to my normal life was what kept me feeling like myself.” She still connects with other women who’ve been diagnosed, offering guidance when asked, but she’s honest that not everyone wants to keep revisiting that chapter. “Some people prefer to close the book and move on, and that’s okay too.”
For Jackie, thrivership meant connection and became the next chapter.
After her diagnosis, she found strength in a community of women, diagnosed under the age of 40. “Being supported by organizations like 5 Under 40 changed everything for me,” she explains. “When treatment was over, I wanted to give back. I became a brand ambassador, where I was fortunate enough to mentor and support newly diagnosed women, helping them navigate life after cancer. It’s not just about surviving, it’s about thriving and finding purpose in what you’ve lived through.”
Together, they show how survivorship can take many forms. There’s no right way to move forward, some find peace in closing the door, others in keeping it open for those who come after. What unites both Debbie and Jackie is a shared belief in staying present, grateful, and aware of how far they’ve come.
Within the breast cancer community, the message of Reclaim October, led by survivor and advocate Trish Michelle, Chief Community Officer of The Breasities resonates deeply. It’s a reminder that awareness is only the beginning. Real impact comes from understanding where your support goes and making sure it truly helps those in need. Debbie and Jackie encourage supporting organizations that provide direct aid, research, and mentorship, including 5 Under 40, The Breasties, and Imerman Angels, and contributing directly to Reclaim October’s fundraiser.
For both women, life after cancer is full – of work, family, friends, clients, and a renewed appreciation of the gift of each day. Whether you’re a survivor yourself or someone supporting a loved one, their message is simple.There’s no single roadmap for healing, everyone’s path looks different. For Debbie and Jackie, it’s about finding balance, staying present, and supporting others along the way.
They have spoken more about their personal experiences and ongoing advocacy in their Brooklyn Bridge Parents, and CanvasRebel features and on the Brownstoner podcast.
