BEE Inspired with Sally Jane

When life throws unpleasant, unexpected change at us, like illness, a big move, or the loss of a job or loved one, we look for ways to draw strength from the experience, while our friends and family may seek out ways to show us support. Sally Waite, founder of Sally Jane jewelry, created a poignant, beautiful line of jewelry after dealing with her own personal struggle, as a means to encourage women to also facing difficult obstacles in their lives.

Seven months pregnant with her only son, Sally received the devastating diagnosis of stage 4-colon cancer. Due to her illness, Sally’s labor needed to be induced. After giving birth to her healthy son, she underwent extensive cancer treatments and multiple surgeries.

As Sally faced every day of her battle, her aunt (also named Sally – “Sally Jane”) encouraged her and supported her. Today, cancer-free, Sally’s purpose-driven life gets reflected in every facet of a jewelry company she and her beloved aunt founded. Their delicate, bee-inspired designs, to encourage other courageous women facing obstacles that might feel devastating or insurmountable to bee courageous, bee strong, and most importantly, bee a survivor.

Not only do these endearing trinkets remind us to find strength from within, each necklace gives back to others also facing struggles. One dollar of every sale helps to “give back and help life happen” by supporting Massachusetts General Hospital’s research campaign toward Immunotherapy as well as helping to fund research toward the benefits of the healing attributes of the physio-philosophy Jin Shin Jyutsu.

I gave a Sally Jane bee necklace to a co-worker struggling with a recent Lyme Disease diagnosis. I wanted her to be reminded of the strength I know she possesses in herself. When I gave her the necklace and explained the sentiment behind it, she broke into tears of appreciation, and hugging me, declared “best boss EVER!” I know my co-worker will overcome the challenges she’ll face living with this disease; and the necklace she now wears reminds her I believe in her and care for her.

Throughout life, everyone will face obstacles to overcome. If you’re not currently struggling with something, someone you know is. This delicate bee jewelry, with its unique, inspirational message and packaging, tells loved ones that you are there for them, that you believe they can overcome anything, and they will find their strength.

Photo Credits: Getty Images

Eileen Calandro