In 2003, while writing on Gilmore Girls, Jessica tested positive for the BRCA1 genetic mutation, otherwise known as The Breast Cancer Gene. The test was relatively new, and Jessica was one of the first young women in the country to speak publicly about carrying the mutation. Shortly after testing positive, Jessica’s Op-Ed piece was published in the New York Times about the burden of knowledge that comes with carrying The Breast Cancer Gene. This article was the launching point for her acclaimed memoir, Pretty is What Changes (Random House, 2008). Jessica is passionate about helping women empower themselves with knowledge that can safeguard their health. She travels around the country speaking about BRCA, and has delivered keynote speeches for the annual FORCE conference in Florida, and the Bright Pink gala in Chicago. She performed at The Basser Center for BRCA’s 2016 event in NYC: In our Genes: An Evening of Storytelling. Jessica is also a frequent media spokeswoman on issues of cancer prevention. She has appeared twice on Nightline, Tavis Smiley and NPR’s Morning Edition. Other appearances include Good Morning America, Entertainment Tonight, and a short documentary for Livestrong. She’s the recipient of the 2007 Lynne Cohen Spirit Award, the 2008 Val Skinner Hero Award, and the 2015 Get In Touch Woman of Strength Award. Jessica proudly serves on the Leadership Council of The Basser Center for BRCA at Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center. Jessica’s first love was dramatic storytelling, and that remains the passion of her life. She has had the privilege of writing for many iconic television shows including Felicity, Gilmore Girls, Ed, Gossip Girl, The Carrie Diaries and Vegas. She is currently a writer/executive producer on the hit show, Supergirl. Jessica is a native New Yorker who currently resides in Los Angeles with her daughter, Sophie.