By Sandra Meyer
Linda Fay is not only a breast cancer survivor; she is a breast cancer victor. Fay was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in July of 2008 and went through accelerated chemotherapy for seven months at Moffitt Cancer Center. She bravely battled the cancer with chemo and the support of family and friends. Because she had a fast growing cancer, there was the possibility that it could come back in two or three years.
“It wasn’t until those three years had passed that I felt strong enough, physically and mentally, to open a jewelry store with my husband and four daughters,” said Fay.
In November of 2012 she opened Aphrodite’s Jewelry Box in Brandon.
The most difficult thing for Fay to deal with during the chemotherapy was the loss of her hair, so she chose to wear wigs, makeup and colorful jewelry as a way to lift her spirits. She understood the cost of buying jewelry so she decided to open a fashion jewelry store that sells unique, hand selected jewelry with prices starting at just $1. The name of the store came easily.
“We chose Aphrodite, who is the goddess of love and beauty. Our motto is, ’Release Your Inner Goddess’ which means live life and wear that fun jewelry,” Fay said.
Aphrodite offers three collections for every budget as well as movie themed jewelry from The Hunger Games, Harry Potter and more. There are also many opportunities to win free jewelry including a monthly drawing for free jewelry from the Goddess Collection the first week of each month.
Aphrodite’s is hosting a “Goddess Glam Event” on Saturday, December 6 from 12 Noon-7 p.m. by invitation only. There will be many chances to win free stuff including a free photo shoot with professional photographer, a three day, two night vacation or free coffee for a month. Spaces are limited so an appointment is necessary to attend this event. Goddesses should e-mail aphroditesjewelrybox@gmail.com with their name, cell phone number, and preferred time for the photo shoot or contact Events Coordinator, Kaitlyn, at 453-2920.
Aphrodite’s is located at 2482 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. Visit www.aphroditesjewelrybox.com for more information.
