Jean Criss' Survivor Story
Survivor Story: Jean Criss, a Breast Cancer Survivor, defies simplicity! From her hospital bed, she pays-it-forward in fashion design. With media and tech expertise, she reaches diverse industry sectors, creating for post-surgical patients, individuals with disabilities, and sports enthusiasts. Styles for all. Jean's motto: "Don't let Cancer get the BREAST of you!" Wishing you all the breast!
All the breast, Jean
"In July 2007, I was one of eight women diagnosed with Breast Cancer while on vacation. Hearing Robin Roberts of ABC News share her diagnosis brought tears to my eyes, reminding me of my dear Aunt Nina who lost her battle to Stage IV malignant breast cancer after 10 tragic years. That same day, I received a call from Radiology requesting further testing. Two weeks of worrying passed until I received the confirmation: 'Jean, you have bi-lateral breast cancer.' The shocking truth is that women 1 in 8 in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, equivalent to one diagnosis every 2 minutes. We need your help to find a cure. My mission became sharing my story, designing improved post-op undergarments, and empowering Survivors to feel confident and beautiful throughout their journey. I invite you to explore our CRISSCROSS Intimates Luxury Intimate Apparel Collection. There's so much more to come.
Discover my 'My 2nd Act' story published in NOU Magazine for Women Survivors (April 2016). My 12-year Survivor Story premiered in NOU Magazine's Commemorative Print Edition at SURVIVORville (Nashville, TN, July 2017)."
Click Here: INTRO BIO/CV CONSULT RATECARD
Robin Roberts, ABC News Anchor July 2007 announced her diagnosis on national TV, same day I received mine.
Launching CRISSCROSS from my living room, I embraced a small, scrappy start-up ethos. Immersed in all aspects, drawing on 25 years of media, management, and high-tech experience, I built a foundation inspired by my journey as a Breast Cancer Survivor and author.
Debuting the first prototype Bra in 2014 at a SoHo Fashion Show garnered positive reviews, leading to marketplace testing. Achieving USPTO patent approvals, technological advancements, and completing the entire CRISSCROSS Intimates Collection marked significant milestones. Launched on April 17th, 2017, close to my late Aunt Nina's birthday.
This journey revealed my resourcefulness, adaptability, and the importance of daily inspiration. Networking effortlessly, I connected with executives, doctors, and new brands. Trade shows, survivor fittings, and writing about breast health technology enriched my understanding of the fashion world. Selecting aligned business partners and letting go of mismatches, pink, symbolizing breast cancer awareness, influences my creative approach in this industry.
Join me on this impactful journey as we make a difference together. Whether you're interested in carrying the Collection, inviting me to speak, or seeking insights on the incubator process and entering the Fashion industry as a new start-up, please reach out.
To all breast cancer patients and survivors, remember your strength. Our experiences, challenges, and triumphs make us wiser, stronger, and more resourceful. Personally enduring surgeries, complications, and documenting my medical journey, today, I celebrate ten years as a survivor, living a healthy and vibrant life.
In my journey, physicians acknowledged my uniqueness amid challenges, recognizing my determination. Honored with the Patients of Courage: Triumph Over Adversity award, and certified in Breast Cancer Management from Columbia University, I've garnered ISO Awards and insurance reimbursement for post-op bras.
My book BLISS! recounts my saga, from surgeries to overcoming bacterial skin disease, leading to the moniker "the Magnet Chic" for my innovative designs. Gaining knowledge about breast cancer, recovery, and a healthy lifestyle, I birthed CRISSCROSS Intimates. Explore our collection, and reach out with questions at info@crisscrossintimates.com.
