Profiles of Impact: Touching lives -- the Jayne Lee Andreesen Memorial Scholarship Fund

Courage, love and joy were the three words Jayne Lee Andreesen used to describe her journey with cancer. Jayne believed a person needed to have courage in order to “beat the cancer,” needed to feel loved because “it is the greatest feeling of all” and a person needed to experience joy because “people can make the best out of things in any circumstance”. 

Jayne, a vibrant 13 year-old was diagnosed with a rare form of pediatric cancer in February 2004. She began treatment at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, where she was hopeful she would overcome her disease. Jayne completed a 42-week protocol treatment plan and was cancer free for seven months. Unfortunately, Jayne passed away on November 12, 2005, after a courageous battle. 

Even though Jayne’s life was taken too soon, her spirit continues to live on. In remembrance of their daughter, Nancy and Jeff Andreesen created the Jayne Lee Andreesen Memorial Scholarship Fund. 

The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating senior of Pleasant Valley High School. Recipients must match criteria based on Jayne’s characteristics and individuals are to be dedicated and respectful, enthusiastic about life, not afraid of a challenge and a person who cares about others. 

“Jayne touched peoples’ lives,” said Mrs. Andreesen. “We want her to continue touching peoples’ lives even though she isn’t here with us.” 

Jayne’s Memorial Fund celebrates her life and honors her memory. Family, friends, neighbors and community members contributed to Jayne’s Memorial. Over 207 donations were made to the self-perpetuating scholarship fund.

The Jayne Lee Andreesen Memorial Scholarship Fund is part of the Pleasant Valley Schools Educational Foundation’s goal to give every graduate a $1,000 scholarship.

Click here to start your own fund.