Our Story – A Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Jaye’s Best Days was founded to honor the life of Jessica “Jaye” Ann Kogut Lezark, a remarkable woman who lived her life with courage, creativity, and compassion. Jaye was more than just a gifted photographer and artist; she was a beacon of light to everyone who knew her. Diagnosed with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer, she faced her illness with bravery and an unyielding determination to live each day as her best day.
Even as her battle with cancer became more difficult, Jaye made the most of every moment – creating memories with her loved ones, sharing her talents, and spreading joy wherever she went. Her final wish was for a charity to be established in her name, one that would allow her to continue helping others, even after her passing.
On January 28, 2022, Jaye’s journey came to an end, but her spirit lives on through Jaye’s Best Days. This organization was created as a testament to her enduring strength and her desire to make every day count. We exist to help those who are struggling to find hope, to provide them with the resources they need, and to remind them that even in the darkest times, there is light.
Our Values
- Compassion: We are driven by a deep sense of empathy and care for those facing life’s hardest battles.
- Resilience: Inspired by Jaye, we believe in the power of strength in the face of adversity.
- Hope: We aim to provide hope and encouragement to those who need it most.
- Community: We believe that no one should face life’s challenges alone. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community.
Our Programs
Through Jaye’s Best Days, we provide various forms of support to individuals and families battling cancer and other serious illnesses:
- Financial Assistance: We provide grants to help cover medical expenses, daily costs, and more, allowing individuals to focus on living their best days without the added stress of financial burdens.
- Emotional Support: Through our community outreach programs, we offer emotional support and companionship to those in need, ensuring they never feel alone in their journey.
- Care Packages: Our custom care packages are filled with items designed to bring comfort and joy to those undergoing treatment.
Meet Your Board of Directors
Robert Lezark
Brittani Hanna
Brittani Hanna
Mr. Lezark was not only Jaye's husband but also the co-founder and president of this organization. He oversees all projects, meetings, and content. For the upcoming fundraiser, he is using his carpentry skills to build and sell merchandise and help give others their best days.
Brittani Hanna
Brittani Hanna
Brittani Hanna
Mrs Hanna has been the backbone for this organization. She has been Jaye's friend and confidant for well over a decade and wants to honor her close friends' wishes and let her legacy live on. She is one of the directors and definitely the most creative person out of all the board of directors. She is well organized, incentive, imaginative
Mrs Hanna has been the backbone for this organization. She has been Jaye's friend and confidant for well over a decade and wants to honor her close friends' wishes and let her legacy live on. She is one of the directors and definitely the most creative person out of all the board of directors. She is well organized, incentive, imaginative, and is a visionary for what this organization is and will be in the future.
Dasha Bunks
Brittani Hanna
Dasha Bunks
Miss Bunks was another of Jaye's many friends. The two shared quite a few heart felt conversations over the course of her cancer battle. Dasha considers herself lucky to have known Jaye and wants to do right by her by assisting in anyway she can with the foundation. Currently, she oversees the website, social media, paperwork, and anything else she can help with.
About Jayes Best Days
Our Mission
When we hear the words 'best days,' we think of the days when we get to lay out in the sun, hang out with our friends, or run around with our furry companions. But, for some, their best days consist of little victories in their course of staying alive. Many cannot even fathom the idea of how this must feel. Our beautiful friend, Jaye, lived out her days by making them her best days while fighting to have just one more day.
This non-profit stands for everything she stood for. As one of her final wishes, we will give her the opportunity to keep helping others by giving those around us a chance to live for their best day.
Celebrating Jaye: A Journey of Joy and Resilience
Jessica “Jaye” Ann Kogut Lezark was born on November 14, 1988, in New Jersey. After graduating from East Brunswick High School and Rutgers University, she became a premier wedding photographer through her business, Jaye Kogut Photography. Jaye was also a gifted musician and Zumba instructor, known for her vibrant spirit.
She and her husband Robert settled in Milltown, sharing a love for gardening, fishing, and snowboarding. Sadly, Jaye passed away from Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer on January 28, 2022. Her final wish was to create a charity that helps others live their best lives, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire.
Images of Impact: A Visual Journey of Jayes Best Days's Outreach
