Our Legacy

Meet our founder.

Dr. Briana Woods-Jaeger

Psychologist. Researcher. Cancer survivor. Founder.

Dr. Briana Woods-Jaeger comes from a long line of healers and community-builders. She grew up volunteering at Children's Mercy Hospital, where her father, Dr. Gerald Woods, served as a hematologist-oncologist for more than 40 years. She witnessed first-hand the profound power of hope, connection, and compassionate care.

As a psychologist, researcher, and educator, Briana has dedicated her career to promoting resilience and healing among children and families who have experienced trauma. Then, life brought the work home.

After supporting her husband Jeff through his cancer journey and losing him, Briana's experience of grief and healing reshaped her work. It grounded her in the belief that the process of healing is unique to each person — and that supporting people as they discover what healing means for them is crucial. This belief has guided her as she's navigated her own cancer journey after being diagnosed with a brain tumor on Christmas Eve.

Briana, Jeff, and their two daughters together at home
Briana, Jeff, and their daughters at home.
Briana and her family at the beach before starting chemotherapy and radiation
Grounding in joy and presence before starting chemotherapy and radiation.

Healing Journeys Foundation is a continuation of Jeff's legacy, her family's values, and a lifetime commitment to creating spaces where people are fully seen, supported, and nurtured on their unique healing journey.

Voices that guide us

Family, love, and legacy.

"I've learned the value of improvising to maintain the quality of life I enjoy. I refuse to allow cancer to diminish my thirst for life."

Goldie Jones — Briana's Grandmother

"Pursue your dreams and passion; don't let disease define you; set your own limits."

Dr. Gerald Woods — Briana's Father

"Hold tightly to your faith as you patiently persevere in your journey with a resilient soul, embracing hope, love, and blessings as you go."

Vedica Eastman — Briana's Mother

"There is something special in you, and it's going to make the world a much better place."

Dr. Jeffrey Jaeger — Briana's Late Husband

Make an impact today

Your gift opens the door to holistic healing.

When you give, you fund retreats, research, and educational resources that expand access to compassionate, whole-person care for cancer survivors and their families.

Healing Journeys Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3). All gifts are tax-deductible.

Two hands cradling a glass heart