Jaylene Álvarez, who placed second in the Miss Universe Puerto Rico pageant nearly five years ago, has revealed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
The 33-year-old beauty queen shared the news on social media on Wednesday, Jan. 21, posting a series of photos of herself in a pink off-the-shoulder dress. Álvarez prefaced her message with a powerful statement: “I Was Given a Diagnosis, Not a Destiny,” reflecting on how the diagnosis has profoundly impacted her life.
Writing in Spanish, Álvarez expressed the emotional weight of confronting her illness. “I’m not saying this out of fear, but from a place of truth and strength … Having a face-to-face encounter with death and saying, ‘Not me, not now, not yet,’ is a moment for which no one can prepare you,” she wrote. “But it is precisely there that you discover how powerful, strong, and resilient you are.”
The former pageant contestant described how the experience has led to spiritual growth and a renewed perspective on life. She emphasized the importance of living intentionally and cherishing every moment. An English translation of her post reads:
“Today I live with more intention, with more love, and with more purpose. I want to serve more, love better, and be a better citizen of the world we share. If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this news, it’s this: let’s not wait for a wake-up call to live fully or seek God. Let’s say what we feel, hug more, and serve without expecting anything in return.”
Álvarez concluded her post by reaffirming her hope and determination, guided by her faith: “Thank you, God, for giving me more than I deserve. Thanks to this experience, today I feel closer to you. I am healing.”
Following her announcement, Álvarez shared an Instagram Reel on Saturday, Jan. 24, showing herself wearing pink boxing gloves and a band across her nose that read “Cancer warrior.” She thanked her supporters in Puerto Rico for their prayers and well wishes, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming show of love.
She also pledged to continue documenting her journey on social media to support other women facing similar challenges and to build a community of encouragement. “My respect to all cancer patients 🤝 because I’m aware that there are more delicate diagnoses than mine. Keeping them in my prayers,” she wrote.
