A FORMER Miss Universe hopeful has revealed a heart-breaking breast cancer diagnosis.
Jaylene Álvarez broke the devastating news to her 15,000 Instagram followers on January 22, opening up about a battle she never expected to face.
Jaylene Álvarez confirmed her cancer diagnosis on InstagramCredit: Jam Press
She has been diagnosed with breast cancer at just 33Credit: Jam Press
In a deeply personal post, the 33-year-old admitted she initially “overlooked” her symptoms – a decision she hopes will serve as a warning to others.
In her post, Jaylene wrote: “I don’t say this from fear, but from truth and strength.
“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.”
Shortly after sharing her diagnosis online, Jaylene appeared on television to speak more candidly about her condition.
Unfortunately, cancer is not unfamiliar territory for her family – several relatives have battled the disease before.
Still, nothing could prepare her for when she discovered a lump.
“I felt the lump myself – I was the one who discovered the cancer,” she revealed.
“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.”
Despite her family history, Jaylene admitted she was completely taken aback when doctors confirmed the diagnosis.
“I’m currently a breast cancer patient, which is common among women,” she said.
“However, for a young woman, it isn’t, right?”
Jaylene is now undergoing chemotherapy and has been forced to wear a wig as a result of treatment.
In a rare piece of good news, she confirmed that the cancer has not spread to anywhere else in her body.
Determined to turn pain into purpose, the model and TV presenter plans to document her journey on social media, offering support and solidarity to other women facing the same diagnosis.
Prior to his horrid ordeal, Jaylene was best known for her success on the pageant stage.
She represented San Lorenzo in the Miss Universe Puerto Rico competition in 2021, finishing second overall and winning the Total Look award for her appearance, outfit and creativity.
In November 2024, she returned to the Miss Universe spotlight, placing the sash on the eventual winner during the final.
Reflecting on everything she has endured, Jaylene shared a powerful message: “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.”
Jaylene is now undergoing chemotherapy to address the issueCredit: Jam Press
She hopes her story will offer support to those going through similar struggles
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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