Sivan Schondorf
Sivan Schondorf believes one of the greatest threats to the Jewish community is the BRCA genetic mutation (also known as the "breast cancer gene," made famous by Angelina Jolie). In 2000, Sivan's aunt passed away from an aggressive breast cancer that affects one in 40 Ashkenazi Jews. After genetic testing, Sivan found out that she and several other family members had a high risk for cancer as well.
Armed with that information, Sivan decided to undergo a risk-reducing mastectomy -- and became a passionate advocate for genetic counseling and BRCA awareness. As a volunteer area coordinator for Chicago FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered), Sivan runs local support groups, community activities, and fundraising events to help empower others to be proactive about their health and shed light on this important cause.
In her professional time, Sivan is a speech language pathologist primarily in pediatric clinical settings and is a mother of two.
Age:
34
Primary gig:
I'm a mom of two (ages 4 and almost 2), I work part-time as a speech language pathologist, mostly in the pediatric clinical setting and also testing in schools. Lastly, I am a volunteer area coordinator for Chicago FORCE (Facing our Risk of Cancer Empowered).
On the side:
My volunteer position is technically “on the side” but it's a primary gig to me as well! I also used to do a lot of theatre, singing, and collaborative projects that I'd love to get back into one day.
Relationship status:
Married to a mensch
Describe yourself in 10 words or less:
Courageous, fierce, determined, nurturing, charismatic, passionate, confident, fun and funny! But my husband wanted me to write: "Mom trying to save Jews one breast at a time."
Chicago's Jewish community in 10 years:
I hope the Jewish community continues to be an example for other communities in Chicago. I hope that programs, such as PJ library continue to connect Jewish young adults, young parents, and also kids to each other.
Me in 10 years:
I'm hoping to continue my part in the BRCA community and pray that medical and technological advancements will make being a part of this community a lot less scary or taboo. I also hope to keep developing my speech practice. But I'll mostly be recovering from my daughter's bat-mitzvah!
