Still kicking butt: Jenna D’s journey from cancer to triathalons (Vol. 8)
Jenna’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and refusing to slow down. A stage 3 breast cancer survivor, endurance athlete, traveler, dog lover, and woman always ready for her next adventure, she embodies the strength and confidence that can emerge through life’s hardest challenges. From completing triathlons and marathons to navigating menopause, rediscovering joy, and planning her next trip abroad, Jenna approaches this stage of life with honesty, humor, and gratitude. Her perspective on aging is simple: women over 50 are far from “over the hill” — in many ways, they’re just getting started.
Visit the project website to learn more about the 50 Over 50 Portrait Experience and to start your own story.
Name: Jenna D’Amico Occupation: Real Estate Agent
Lives In: Cypress, TX (but soon relocating to Colorado)
What are some of the most significant lessons you've learned since turning 50?
Women do not talk enough about sensitive topics like menopause. I had no idea what was going on with me when it first started and had to figure it out on my own. Luckily, now my friends and I share experiences, treatments, how it is affecting us and our lives.
How has your perspective on life changed as you've gotten older?
What is important in life. Health , living your own life your way, friends and family, and not to sweat the small stuff. I would much rather travel and have amazing experiences than just collect things.
What is one thing you wish more people understood about women over 50?
Cannot tell you how many amazing women in their 50's and old are still kicking butt doing triathlons, running marathons, being active , fit, and healthy. I love it!
What accomplishments are you most proud of at this stage in your life?
Beating stage 3 breast cancer. Finishing 2 dozen or more triathlons, and doing a last-minute full marathon without training.
What are your hopes or dreams for the years ahead?
Travel more, see my family more often, move to a place where I hope it feels more like home and I can finally be happy .
Tell me about a challenge you've faced in your middle or older years and how you overcame it (or how you are in the process of overcoming it, or accepting it).
Menopause! I didn't know what was going on when it started and had to figure things out on my own. I was having an out-of-body experience. Because I am a cancer survivor, I cannot take any hormones or hormone therapy like most women can, so my oncologist manages the symptoms for me the best she can. Also, talking to my friends about it helps. One just told me yesterday she does acupuncture to relieve the hot flashes and gives her more energy as well.
How do you define beauty now, compared to when you were younger?
Well, beauty is of course in the eye of the beholder. I prefer natural beauty, having a good skin care routine both morning and night, as well as religiously taking excellent care of my hair, that I appreciate more now since I lost it all during my cancer journey.
What passions or interests have you discovered or rediscovered later in life?
I started doing triathlons in my 40's. I didn't find out about and understand dog rescue until post-cancer and about 40 years old. Swimming, I just started consistently doing it every week, longer distances and love it! The water speaks to me. Also traveling. I did not travel outside the US until I was almost 30. I have since visited at least 16 countries, and leaving for Europe next week to add #17 to that list.
How do you nurture your physical, emotional, and/or spiritual well-being?
Physical- I go to pilates classes twice a week, a stretch, balance, and core class once a week. I try to swim at least 2000-3000 yards once a week, twice if I get lucky. Emotionally - I started seeing a therapist a few years ago. She helped me sort through some things, and I still stay on a schedule with her. Spiritual - I have quiet talks with God in the car or elsewhere.
What role do friendships and community play in your life now?
I would say I have a smaller circle of friends, but they are more meaningful. I have gotten closer again to my very dear best friend that I have known since I was 5, in the last decade or so. I think we will always have a sisterly bond and just understand each other. Mentally, I have checked out of Texas and I am ready for the next chapter.
What brings you the most joy these days?
Feeling healthy and happy. Seeing my older dogs still with us. Spending time with my family that I haven't lived near in a long, long time. Certain surreal moments while visiting somewhere new; I have to pinch myself that I am so lucky to be there and get to experience that.
Any words of advice or inspiration for younger women?
Be kinder to yourself. Listen to your body, do not ignore it if you feel something is wrong. And be happy and confident with YOU and do not care what others think of you.
Describe a choice you might have made differently in your younger years, if you'd had the knowledge you have now.
Probably figuring out a way to go to school without having to work full-time while doing it. That was exhausting and prevented me from getting my bachelor’s degree.
What is an experience that has significantly impacted the direction of your life? How old were you when this happened, and what was the effect on your life?
Getting stage 3 breast cancer that spread at 35 years old. That was a shock not only for me but my whole family. I was thankful I had family and friends to help me, surprise me, rally around and be with me during my journey. It was priceless. I decided during chemo that I was going to give back and help others get through their journey, and I have ever since.
What is something you once feared about aging that you now embrace?
Looking older. I just step up my game on skin care, including getting regular facials.
How has your relationship with your body evolved over the years?
Breast cancer changed a lot of that. Menopause has changed it even more.
Who has been the greatest influence on your life, and why?
My Dad. When my mother wanted a divorce and pretty much walked out, he figured out how to take care of two little girls. He fought for us, he gave us a good stable home, and was always fair with us. I continue to tell him often how thankful I will always be for him.
What traditions or values do you hope to pass on to the next generation?
Taking the time to hand-write thank you cards or Christmas cards. I even still send birthday, other holiday, or just-to-say-hello notes or cards.
How do you continue to learn or challenge yourself?
My job is a daily challenge and new learning experience lol
What stereotype about women over 50 would you like to challenge or change?
That we are over the hill.
Reader, if you’re ready to be seen and would like to participate in the 50 Over 50 Portrait Experience, please visit the project website and fill out the short form. I’ll be in touch soon. I’d love to have you! But don’t wait - the project is filling quickly, and I expect it to be fully booked in the next few weeks.
Want more?
Explore more inspiring women from the 50 Over 50 Portrait Series:
Ann’s story: Family, advocacy, and life over 50
Aimee’s story: Unapologetically living out her values
Catina’s story: Celebrating 50 and enjoying a healthy future
Laura’s story: Rediscovering the small joys after surviving cancer
Don’t forget to check out the 50 over 50 website to get in touch and start your own story!