Jennifer's Team Monarch Runs In Loving Memory of Jennifer Rae Kochan - by Brent Novey

Jennifer Rae Kochan is my cousin. She is the oldest daughter of my Aunt Patricia Novey Farber. (Patricia is the sister of my grandfather Bari Novey. I call him Pop) Jennifer was very special. My dad says she was "beautiful, both inside and out, and the bravest person he has ever known." 

Jennifer grew up in Lakeland Florida. She enjoyed horseback riding, had many friends, loved sleepovers, and often visited our family in Emporia. She had a terrific smile. You can see that in all of her pictures. 

Jennifer attended the University of Central Florida. In her freshman year she was diagnosed with Leukemia. Although she passed away on January 23, 1993 at the age of 20, she touched many lives. She was a source of remarkable strength for many patients and families at the Medical College of Virginia and an incredible inspiration to our entire family. 

Jennifer was a spokeswoman for ASK. In the video below Jennifer spoke at the ASK Rainbow Gala on September 11, 1992, only 5 months before her death. Although Jennifer had just found out only days before the gala that she relapsed and her cancer was back, Jennifer bravely insisted that she speak at the event, sharing her story and letting everyone know how thankful she was for their support. 

I wish I could have met Jennifer. I hear my family talk about her and can see that she was very special. I hope by watching this video you can see that too. Please join us by supporting ASK and the amazing kids and families helped by this amazing organization.