As Breast Cancer Awareness Month concludes, Cleveland City Schools celebrates the strength, dedication, and inspiring journey of Amy Geren McGowan. Serving as a counselor at Cleveland Middle School and head coach for the Cleveland Blue Raiders girls volleyball team at Cleveland High School, McGowan has become a pillar of support, hope, and resilience in her community. Her remarkable story as a breast cancer survivor continues to encourage students, athletes, and families alike to embrace life’s challenges with courage and compassion.
At Cleveland Middle School, McGowan is known for her supportive and empathetic approach, guiding students through both academic and personal growth. In addition, her role as head coach of the Cleveland Blue Raiders girls volleyball team has allowed her to foster teamwork, resilience, and character among young athletes. Her coaching philosophy goes beyond the court, encouraging her players to lead with integrity, perseverance, and kindness.
McGowan’s life took an unexpected turn in 2017 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The diagnosis brought her family closer together, shifting their focus from achievements and school sports to cherishing time together. Reflecting on the journey, McGowan shares, “Breast cancer showed us what truly matters. It’s not about winning games or achieving milestones but about embracing life with gratitude and prioritizing our loved ones.” Her strength throughout treatment and recovery became a source of inspiration not only for her family but also for her students and players.
Through this journey, McGowan watched her children grow into compassionate, resilient young adults who prioritize serving others. “Witnessing their growth has been one of the greatest gifts,” McGowan says. “My diagnosis changed their lives, teaching them that success lies in character, service, and kindness. I’m incredibly proud of the people they are becoming.”
CCS is honored to celebrate Amy Geren McGowan’s story of survival, strength, and selflessness. Her influence, both as a cancer survivor and a dedicated educator and coach, serves as a beacon of hope for the Cleveland community, reminding us all of the power of resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
Cleveland City Schools is proud to support every person impacted by breast cancer, honoring their strength and resilience and standing together as a community committed to awareness, care, and hope for a cure.