Alyssa Wakeley has a new outlook on life and the way she interacts with people on a day-to-day basis. In 2020, she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at the age of 27.
“Life as I knew it stopped overnight. I went through chemotherapy, surgery and radiation, all while trying to stay strong for my son,” said Wakeley.
Wakeley credits her mother for being by her side through everything her journey with cancer brought her way. She won her battle with breast cancer when she was 28.
“I rang the bell, and it was more than a moment of relief — it was the beginning of my testimony,” said Wakeley.
Wakeley decided that she wanted to give back, and Warriors That Pray was born. Warriors That Pray is a faith-based jewelry brand that connects people through prayer and compassion. For every bracelet purchased, one is donated to a cancer warrior around the world. To date, Warriors That Pray has donated more than 2,700 bracelets to warriors around the world.
“Each piece serves as a tangible reminder that no one fights alone — that there’s purpose and strength even in the battle,” said Wakeley.
Wakeley’s journey also inspired her to write a book, “The Cancer Companion: A Day-at-a Time Journal For Cancer Warriors.”
“It’s for anyone walking through a storm who needs a reminder that beautiful things can still grow in broken places,” said Wakeley.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month but for Wakeley and so many others awareness is a year-round mission.
“This cause is deeply personal because I’ve lived it. I know the fear, the faith, the exhaustion and the gratitude that come with every milestone,” Wakeley said.
Wakeley’s story is full of hope and strength, which is the mission she wants to share with others.
“My mission isn’t just for breast cancer warriors — it’s for all warriors and their families who are facing unimaginable challenges. Whether it’s cancer, illness, grief or any season of pain, my hope is that they feel supported, surrounded and reminded that they are never alone,” she said.
Wakeley’s bracelets and necklaces can be found online at www.warriorsthatpray.com, in several local Jacksonville boutiques, including Sisterlee Boutique (Jax Beach), One of Each Gift Shop (Jax Beach) , Palmetto (Neptune Beach), Baptist MD Anderson Gift Shop and at markets and wellness events across the country.
