About Us

Turning Pain into Purpose

The Alayna Jayne Foundation was born from one young woman’s battle with cancer—and a shared determination between mother and daughter to make a difference for others walking a similar path.

In September 2021, at just 17 years old, Alayna began her senior year of high school with the devastating words no teenager should ever hear: “You have cancer.” From the beginning, Alayna’s care journey broke new ground. She became the first pediatric patient at Memorial Sloan Kettering to use a cold cap—an innovative device that helps preserve hair during chemotherapy. For Alayna, it wasn’t about vanity—it was about identity. Keeping her hair meant being able to look in the mirror and still recognize herself amidst the upheaval of treatment.

 

Her courage and innovation quickly earned her the nickname "The Pioneer Patient"—and sparked a mission. Other young patients began asking how she had kept her hair, and it became clear: this option should be available to more adolescents and young adults facing cancer.

Alongside her mother Elaine, who had been a fierce advocate every step of the way, Alayna saw a bigger purpose. Inspired by the overwhelming support they received from their community and even strangers, the two set out to turn a painful journey into something positive—for others. And so, the Alayna Jayne Foundation was founded.

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Our Mission

AJF is dedicated to supporting the unique needs of Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) cancer patients—a group that often falls into the gap between pediatric and adult cancer care. From diagnosis through survivorship, AYA patients face challenges that are often overlooked. We're here to change that.

What began as a mission to fund cold caps has now expanded to include:

• BMT Room Makeovers for bone marrow transplant recipients who spend weeks in hospital room on isolation 

• Wig funding for those who can’t use cold caps

• Daisy Retreats offering healing and connection for patients and survivors

• Scholarships for students impacted by cancer

 

Our Why

After being declared cancer-free in early 2022, Alayna graduated high school with honors and began nursing school at Monmouth University. But her journey took another turn. In October 2023, she relapsed—and this time, the disease was more aggressive. She underwent a bone marrow transplant in April 2024, followed by radiation, all while continuing her nursing studies and growing the work of AJF.

Alayna’s story is one of resilience, hope, and purpose. Through the foundation, she and Elaine continue to fight—not just for Alayna, but for every young person navigating the uncertainty and fear of a cancer diagnosis.

 

No one should face cancer alone. The Alayna Jayne Foundation is here to bridge the gap, build community, and bring light to the darkest moments.