Miss Universe star requires God’s assist as she admits heartbreaking well being battle
Jaylene Alvarez wowed the public in the Miss Universe Puerto Rico pageant, but is now battling a horrific disease, admitting she initially overlooked her symptoms
Jaylene Álvarez caused a wave of concern after her breast cancer diagnosis
A former Miss Universe contestant has opened up on the devastating health battle she is facing after competing in the pageant. She admitted that she is now calling for divine intervention to help her beat the disease and recover properly.
Jaylene Álvarez broke the news to her 15,200 Instagram followers last Thursday (22 January). She also stressed that she initially “overlooked” the most telling symptoms, urging other women to stay alert and pay attention to their bodies.
The 33-year-old penned: “Today I’m sharing news that has changed my life: I have breast cancer. I don’t say this from fear, but from truth and strength.”
She continued: “I’m going through this process supported by God, with firm faith and a peaceful heart, even amid uncertainty. To come face to face with death and tell it, ‘Not with me, not now, not yet’ is a moment no one prepares you for — but it’s precisely there that you discover how powerful, strong, and warrior-like you are.”
After her post, Jaylene went on television to speak about her diagnosis, admitting that cancer has affected several of her relatives, so the battle against the disease was “not new” to her. She recalled: “I felt the lump myself — I was the one who discovered the cancer; I must emphasise that, at first, I overlooked it”.
“All of this began at the end of October, when I first felt it. Shortly after, I felt it again, and it had grown.”
Jaylene, who works as a model and television presenter, admitted she was left reeling when medics confirmed her worst fears, according to NeedToKnow. “I’m currently a breast cancer patient, which is common among women,” she explained.
“However, for a young woman, it isn’t, right?” Currently receiving chemotherapy treatment and donning a wig, Jaylene shared the positive news that her cancer hasn’t spread to other parts of her body.
She’s also determined to document more of her experience on social media platforms to offer encouragement to other women battling similar health challenges. Jaylene, who shares her life with husband Jan Nieves, competed for San Lorenzo in Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2021.
She secured the first runner-up position and claimed the Total Look award for her stunning presentation, wardrobe, and innovative flair. In November 2024, she participated in the Miss Universe finale, taking on the honour of crowning the victor with the winner’s sash.
Looking back on her personal transformation online, Jaylene shared: “This experience has awakened me. It has helped me grow spiritually, see life through different eyes, and understand that every second is a gift.
“Today I live with more intention, more love, and more purpose. I want to serve more, love better, and be a better citizen of the world we share.”
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