Fashion journalist Jeanne Beker has been in the public eye for more than 50 years, most notably as a globetrotting reporter interviewing some of the world’s highest-profile designers and models, as well as entertainers the likes of Paul McCartney and Bob Hope. But for the last year, Beker, now 71, has turned the camera on her own story—as a breast cancer patient. She’s been extremely public about her diagnosis, chemotherapy and radiation treatments, and surgery. And now, she’s advocating for better (and earlier) screening for women with dense breasts. Two weeks ago, Beker completed her year of cancer treatments at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. But that challenge hasn’t stopped her from starting to write a new book, hosting her Style Matters television show and making countless appearances at fundraisers for breast cancer and other good causes. Beker joins The CJN Daily to discuss where she got her determination and how she’s found a renewed gratitude for life.

What we talked about

Follow Jeanne Beker on her Instagram account or her website
Read The CJN’s coverage of Jeanne Beker’s career from emceeing the Zareinu fashion shows, to winning many awards
Hear The CJN Daily’s interview with Jeanne Beker’s cancer authority, Dr. Paula Gordon, on why women with dense breasts should get screened beginning at 40

Credits

The CJN Daily is written and hosted by Ellin Bessner (@ebessner on Twitter). Zachary Kauffman is the producer. Michael Fraiman is the executive producer. Our theme music is by Dov Beck-Levine. Our title sponsor is Metropia. We’re a member of The CJN Podcast Network. To subscribe to this podcast, please watch this video. Donate to The CJN and receive a charitable tax receipt by clicking here.

From catwalks to cancer, Jeanne Beker says she's living her best life