“Not broken. Not beaten. Just rebuilding differently.” Scars don’t mean the structure’s failed. They mean the structure’s learning to adapt. I am still here—not as I was before, but more aware, more grounded, and yes, still creating my story. I’m not a survivor. I’m a builder.
“Behind these shades is a vision—clear, defiant, and unafraid.” The glasses aren’t hiding anything. They’re shielding the spark. The plan is clear. The path is tough. But the vision? The vision is brighter than ever. And it doesn’t blink.
“This face has seen the storm—and chose to become the lightning.” You don’t walk through diagnosis, treatment, grief, or rebirth and come out the same. I didn’t just weather the storm. I absorbed it. And now I flash back with power, energy, and clarity. Not a victim. A force.
“Everything Was Fine And Then It Wasn’t”
How It All Began
When the System Failed, They Fought Back—With Awareness, Art, Advocacy, and Relentless Hope.In One Moment They Stood Still With A Deadly Diagnosis and Found the Quiet Strength of Two Hearts.Rewriting the Rules: Inside One Couple’s Mission to Break the Silence Around Men’s Health.
No Plan B: Lisa and Jefferey’s Story of Resilience, Reinvention, and Reckoning
The lights glowed softly over the bar at Princeton’s legendary eatery, casting a golden hue over the polished wood and the murmured conversations of alumni arriving early for the weekend’s festivities. Lisa and Jefferey sat side by side, toasting quietly to something deeper than nostalgia—survival.
They had come a day ahead of Lisa’s 40th reunion, not for the parties or the photo ops, but for a moment of stillness. A pause. After more than two years of relentless medical, emotional, and professional storms, they craved something simple and human: a good meal, a warm smile, and the luxury of exhaling.
The unraveling had begun in late 2022. A promising venture that once held their future in its hands collapsed with little warning. The loss was both professional and personal—forcing Jefferey, once a celebrated CMO/CCO in men’s health innovation, to begin again at the start of 2023. But even that reset would pale in comparison to what followed.
Just before New Year’s Eve, an unassuming message from a Chicago hospital delivered a blow no one saw coming: a 95% chance of prostate cancer.
Time warped. Appointments blurred. Fatigue—once a symptom of stress—grew into something darker, heavier. They sought second opinions, first from local doctors, then from the Mayo Clinic, spurred by Jefferey’s near-fainting episodes and increasing distrust in the care he was receiving. The diagnosis came quickly: aggressive prostate cancer. Treatment was urgent.
But then, the plan shifted again.
But then, the plan shifted again.
A prior procedure had left Jefferey ineligible for surgery. The call from Mayo changed everything. There would be no “clean removal.” Instead, Jefferey was prescribed a grueling new path: six to seven weeks of daily radiation, hormone-suppressing injections twice a year, and oral chemotherapy every day for two years. The idea of a quick fix was gone. What lay ahead was a battle of attrition.
But here’s where the story bends—where despair meets purpose.
Jefferey wasn’t new to this world. Years earlier, he had led the charge at a revolutionary men’s health clinic, breaking the silence around subjects men rarely dared to speak about: prostate health, erectile dysfunction, vulnerability. He had crafted campaigns that shook up the medical industry and rewrote the narrative around masculinity and care.
Now, the spotlight turned inward. The patient became the messenger.
He adopted a mantra: FC—Because There Is No Plan B. It wasn’t just a slogan. It was a lifeline. A battle cry for the men who delay, deny, and deflect until it’s too late. For the partners and families caught in the quiet wreckage of silence. For the caregivers, like Lisa, who hold the weight of two hearts at once.
As they sat that night in Princeton, Lisa and Jefferey weren’t just recovering. They were recommitting—to each other, to the mission, and to the idea that sharing their story might help another couple arrive at an earlier diagnosis, a better outcome, or the strength to face the unthinkable.
The reunion weekend was about more than college memories.It was about legacy. And theirs was just beginning.
The Expressing myself started with one t-shirt became a catalyst for the book
So,What Does “FC” Really Stand For?
Certainly it means find cancer or fix cancer or fight cancer and of course … When I first had the vision during radiation treatment it gave me an opening to create a bold, branded look that immediately sparks recognition and invites personal interpretation. It’s not just a design—it’s a statement, a catalyst for conversation, and a way for individuals to express their own connection to its meaning.
For some, FC represents Focus & Commitment—the unwavering drive to push forward with no Plan B.
For others, it stands for Fearless Confidence—a reminder that boldness, resilience, and self-belief shape their path.
To a fighter, it’s Fight & Conquer—overcoming obstacles with unshakable determination.
To a dreamer, it means Forge & Create—turning vision into reality, knowing success comes from dedication.
For families and friends, it’s a shared mantra: Faith & Connection—a bond that strengthens with every challenge.
However you see it, FC is a movement. A mindset. A way of showing the world that you don’t back down, because there is no Plan B.
Think about what FC could mean to you.
Then Expressing myself started with one t-shirt that has become a catalyst
Now Is The Time To Start New, Real Conversations and Save Lives
During The Early To Mid 1990’s A Young, Creative and Before It Was The Way Of Building A Small, Start-Up Men’s Medical Practice Being Disruptive and Everywhere Possible To Build It Into A Nationally Recognized Brand That Helped Tell The Story That Helped Hundreds Of Thousands Of Men and There Partners Find a Diagnosis and Treatment. Our approach created conversations. Those Conversations Turned Into Action To Be Seen By A Medical Professional That Often Times Recognized An Underlying Condition, Including Previously Unrecognized or Undiagnosed Prostate Cancer Who Without Being Screened Might Have Had To Suffer Needlessly And Unsuccessfully With Prostate Cancer.
That Disrupter Was Me. And Now I Am Not Just Disrupting. Now, I Am A Part Of The Conversation As A Stage IV Cancer Patient.
Prostate cancer is a silent threat—one that thrives on lack of conversation, fear, and misinformation too many men avoid discussing their health leading to late diagnosisand unnecessary loss of life. Because There Is No Plan B™ exists tochange that reality breaking the silence and fostering meaningful, life-saving conversations about prostate cancer where men live, work, and play.
Seriously. What Are We Pretending Not To Know?
“Tell Them and They Hear, Show Them and They See, Involve Them And They Understand”
- Get men talking—with their wives, families, friends, colleagues, and care providers from writing, art, conversations to speaking,
- Create a recognizable, engaging look and attitude brand that gets the attention of a variety of people who have their individual idea of what FC means to them and the essence of what Because There’s No Plan B™ is and could be for them, someone they know, their family, wife, friends or who just might want a conversation about the brand.
- This brand, or conversation gets life from using things like the FC Branded Water Bottle as Radiation Patients know how important that water is to their treatment. Wearables such as hats and T-shirts also bring life to this project.
- Create opportunities for these conversations in everyday life, so they happen naturally—before it’s too late for myself and many, many others.
- Encourage early detection, informed decisions, and better health outcomes.
- Create Awareness and urgency, thru media, online, with organizations such as Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, the American Cancer Society, The Call of The Soul Foundation and many others.
- Do It Now because for me every moment of every day matters and we just don’t know what that looks like, so why take the chance not to be able to create a meaningful way, use my experience and knowledge instead of not doing so
Here’s How Together We’re Going To Make This Happen
- Pre-release special pricing to those that order the book in advance, as well as revenue from the soon to be available podcast and any speaking appearances.
- Finish The Book & Audio Book for release by summer.
- Create, Produce and Distribute The Podcast beginning this spring.
- Create Awareness For The Brand , Encourage early detection and urgency thru bloggers, influencers, other podcasts, with organizations such as Mayo Clinic and main stream media based on years of working with PR and Creative Clients by creating awareness, social media and continuing to consume and become attached to relevant news and events related to prostate cancer.
- Continue To Grow Relationships With The Team At Mayo Continuing to gain insight, information and collaboration with my palliative care team, researchers and fellow cancer patients.
- Work and Live Each Day as it is a gift that needs to be appreciated with kindness, learning, love and as if it were the last.
- I/we need your help to make this happen thru donation, grants, book and merchandise sales and/or appearance fees.
- More than anything I’ve done in the past number of years, I want this book to be a catalyst that can make a difference for so many men and their families because prostate cancer is a silent threat—one that thrives on lack of conversation, fear, and misinformation which more than not leads to too many men avoid discussing their health, leading to late diagnoses and unnecessary loss of life.
- Because There Is No Plan B™ exists to change that reality by breaking the silence and fostering meaningful, life-saving conversations about prostate cancer where men live, work, and play. I know because now I am one of them.
which in turn has become more fuel beginning a focus on writing and speaking
The Book |FC:Because There Is No Plan B
COMING THIS SUMMER
FC: Because There Is No Plan B is a raw, honest memoir by Jefferey Cornett—a former senior communications executive, entrepreneur, children’s television host, musician, and author—that chronicles his personal battle with advanced prostate cancer. Available in both book and audiobook formats, this narrative offers an unfiltered look at a multifaceted career and a shocking, life-altering diagnosis.
In the mid-1990s, Cornett helped revolutionize men’s health as the CMO/CCO for a start up to IPO national men’s specialty practice for men—a pioneering initiative that broke the silence on topics like mens’s sexual health, prostate cancer and paved the way for innovations such as Viagra. Despite his influential role in advancing men’s health, he once believed he knew what to look for and was invincible—until aggressive prostate cancer hit him unexpectedly, accidentally shattering that illusion and everything around he and his spouse.
Cornett’s story not only exposes the dangerous myths surrounding prostate cancer—such as the beliefs that it only affects older men or that one need not be screened if they feel fine—but also highlights how these misconceptions contribute to delayed diagnoses and rising death rates. With over 35,000 prostate cancer deaths expected in the U.S. this year alone and global cases projected to nearly double by 2040, his memoir is a call to action for greater awareness, early detection, and expanded access to diagnostic tools.
More than just his own story, FC: Because There Is No Plan B weaves in the experiences of thousands of patients, families, and caregivers. It is a testament to resilience and healing, enriched with reflections on how creativity, art, and musichave played a vital role in balancing life’s challenges. Through his candid journey, Cornett works to inspires not only his wife, Lisa, and their family, but othersfacing health battles, urging everyone to fight for change and never settle for a Plan B.
In Part I: The Discovery That Changed Everything, Cornett introduces his vibrant, accomplished life before recounting the shock of an unexpected stage IV prostate cancer diagnosis.
In Chapter 1 –Unexpected Diagnosis, he shares the initial impact on him and his wife—a mix of disbelief, fear, and resolve.
Chapter 2 – Facing Mortality, Finding Purposefollows, chronicling his journey from denial and anger to a fierce determination to fight, drawing on decades of experience in music, art, and performance.
Chapter 3 Understanding the Enemy provides a candid look at the disease itself, highlighting the silent nature of prostate cancer and the importance of early detection.
Chapter 4 – Knowing People, Purpose and The Path Traveled weaves in stories of pioneers in prostate health and the evolution of research and treatment.
Part II: Shattering Myths and Stigmas tackles the dangerous misconceptions that often keep men from seeking help.
In Chapter 4 – The Myths Men Believe, Cornett debunks myths such as “prostate cancer only affects older men” and “if I feel fine, I don’t need to get checked.”
Chapter 5 – Breaking the Silence and Chapter 6 – The Cost of Ignorance explore how these false beliefs lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes, underscoring the urgent need for proactive healthcare and awareness.
In Part III: Life Re-imagined – Living with Stage IV Cancer, Cornett reflects on his evolving strength.
Chapter 7 – Redefining Resilience examines how he adapted to his new reality and found solace in creativity and art, while Chapter 8 – The Impact on Partnership and Family delves into the emotional toll on his marriage and family.
In Chapter 9 – A Mission to Live For, he reveals how his pain transformed into purpose, inspiring him to become a passionate advocate for early detection and change.
Part IV: Fighting for Awareness – A Call to Action shifts focus to the broader fight against prostate cancer.
Chapter 10 – Conversations with Champions features interviews with leading oncologists, researchers, and advocates, while Chapter 11 – Changing the Narrative through Media shows how his background in communications has fueled a movement to break the silence around men’s health.
Chapter 12 – Art, Music, and Healing highlights the therapeutic power of creative expression in the healing process.
Finally, in Part V: Moving Forward with Purpose – Hope, Healing, and Advocacy, Cornett lays out his vision for the future. Chapter 13 – Our Next Steps: Living Without a Plan B outlines his ongoing commitment to health, legacy, and advocacy. Chapter 14 – Building a Movement for Change provides practical guidance for readers to join the fight for better awareness and access to diagnostic tools. In Chapter 15 – Legacy of a Fighter, he leaves us with a resounding message: there is no Plan B—only the relentless pursuit of early detection, self-advocacy, and community support.
Cornett’s journey is not just his own; it resonates with thousands of patients, families, and caregivers. His story of resilience, healing, and the transformative power of art and creativity serves as both an inspiration and a clarion call for change in the battle against prostate cancer.
Available in both print and audiobook, this engaging narrative isn’t written by medical professionals but speaks directly to men and their loved ones, offering an honest look at a life transformed by illness.
creating another conversation option this summer with our
Subscription Based News Letter
FC | Between the Lines
For those who read life like art—and live it like truth.
FC | Between the Lines is a weekly dispatch and creative signal flare from the edge of what’s real—where illness, art, advocacy, and survival intersect.
Created by Stage IV Cancer Patient, artist and storyteller Jefferey Cornett, this newsletter shares personal essays, original artwork, interviews, and tools for those navigating life without a script. Some days, you’ll receive a quick insight—a quote, a prompt, a moment of clarity—to remind you that you’re not alone in the unknown.
Each week, you’ll get:
- A powerful story or reflection
- A featured piece of art and its backstory
- A conversation with someone reshaping what strength looks like
- Select daily drops: one-liners, hard truths, and moments of pause
This is for people who want to live deliberately—who see the invisible ink between events, and know healing is an act of creation.
Created by artist and storyteller Jefferey Cornett, this newsletter shares personal essays, original artwork, interviews, and tools for those navigating life without a script. Some days, you’ll receive a quick insight—a quote, a prompt, a moment of clarity—to remind you that you’re not alone in the unknown.
This isn’t just a newsletter—it’s a witness to what happens when life demands everything, and you choose to answer with art, advocacy, and truth.
Each weekly edition delivers a curated blend of:
- From The Heart: Notes and Shares
- Stories from Jefferey’s ongoing journey with stage IV cancer—written with unflinching honesty, humor, and depth.
- Whether it’s recounting a day at the Mayo Clinic, reflecting on a decades-long music career, or navigating the emotional terrain of caregiving, each dispatch brings readers into the raw center of what it means to keep going.
- Sample title: “The Art of Showing Up: What My Sketchbook Taught Me About Radiation Recovery”
Voices That Matter
Conversations with other survivors, caregivers, doctors, artists, and thinkers who are living between the lines—those reshaping what strength, recovery, purpose, or masculinity looks like today.
Sample guest:
- A palliative care nurse who moonlights as a poet.
- A distillery owner whose mother’s diagnosis led to a whiskey brand that donates to cancer research.
- Jefferey’s wife, Lisa Barron—an award-winning journalist and producer—on caregiving, partnership, and what it means to keep loving through it all.
The Creative Survival Kit
A rotating section featuring tools, prompts, books, and creative practices that have helped Jefferey and others stay grounded in their purpose.
Daily Insights (2–3x per week)
Short emails—quick to read, impossible to ignore. They’re the pauses between the full pages. A breath. A truth. A quote. A flash of clarity.
A rotating section featuring tools, prompts, books, and creative practices that have helped Jefferey and others stay grounded in their purpose.
Examples:
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“You are not here to explain your pain to anyone who cannot sit still.”
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“Some days, surviving is the art.”
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“Legacy begins when silence ends.”
These aren’t motivational posters. They’re creative signals for real life.
Who It’s For
-
People navigating illness, grief, or caregiving
-
Artists and writers or wanna be artists and writers craving deeper purpose
-
Advocates and change-makers who believe art has power
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Anyone who’s ever thought, “There has to be more to this.”
then it becomes motivation more conversation and motivation thru listening
The Because There Is No Plan B Podcast
In a world where silence can be deadly, FC: Because There Is No Plan B is a bold new podcast that confronts one of the biggest barriers to men’s health—talking about it. Hosted by Jefferey Cornett, this series dives deep into the unspoken struggles men face when it comes to cancer, particularly prostate cancer, and how their reluctance to discuss it with friends, family, colleagues, and even their own spouses often leads to late diagnoses and lost chances at life-saving treatment.
Many men discover they have cancer by accident—during a routine physical or while seeking care for an unrelated issue. Others don’t talk about it until it’s too late. Why? Because the stigma, myths, and fears surrounding men’s health keep them in the dark. This podcast aims to change that.
Through candid conversations with survivors, medical experts, spouses, and advocates, we explore the real-life impact of this disease and break down the barriers that keep men from getting the care they need. We challenge the culture of silence, giving men and their loved ones the tools and encouragement to start these life-saving conversations—because ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away.
Our mission? To make these discussions happen—to help men and their spouses ask the right questions, seek the right information, and take control of their health before it’s too late. Because every day is a gift—and knowing the truth can mean the difference between living fully or not living at all.
Podcast Interview
Ray founded The Call Of The Soul with the dream of helping the planet by working with the key areas of business, education, and families.After finishing his doctorate in psychology, Ray worked in various treatment modalities that included hospitals, residential treatment, drug and alcohol, rape crises, and suicide prevention.
A three-sport athlete in high school, Ray also found a home in martial arts. He opened his first school in the mid-1980s and achieved the rank of 8th Degree black belt in both Taekwondo and Kenpo. He also achieved a 1st-degree black belt in Kobudo (Traditional Ancient Weapons). While not formally teaching martial arts anymore, he shares his passion for the arts with his church in small groups and is a self-proclaimed ‘gym rat.’
In 2003, Ray went back to school and completed seminary, and was ordained in 2005 as an Interfaith Minister. He continues to live a faith-based life but is passionate about honoring everyone’s choice in how they view the Divine.
Currently, he is teaching at various colleges in the Bay Area in the area of psychology while serving on the college’s Executive Board for the district.
Ray has written over a dozen books and courses, many of which can be found on the site, with several still waiting to be published. The books and courses are varied and cover a wide range of topics that include business, family dynamics, transformation, and education.
He is a gifted speaker, coach, consultant, and trainer.
Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Ray has two adult children and continues to live there with his wife, Linda, and their house full of pets.
While he is accomplished, what he is most excited about is the mission to elevate the planet by serving, and connecting with amazing people in as many ways as possible and having a fun and exciting time while doing it.
Like you, I was born with parents and grandparents. They have been gone for years but there isn’t ONE day that I don’t think about them. You see, my parents worked very hard but didn’t really take care of themselves very well.
Retirement health is KEY.
I wish they had taken better care of themselves as I miss them terribly and I would have loved to have them see my kids grow up.
Learn more about this book and many others by Ray
There’s A Lot Of Myths About This
Myths and Misunderstandings About Prostate Cancer – And A Big Why More Often Than Not Keeping Men from Early Detection
“Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, yet it remains surrounded by myths, stigma, and misconceptions that prevent early detection and timely treatment. Many men ignore symptoms, avoid screenings, or downplay risks, often leading to late-stage diagnoses when treatment options are more limited, invasive, and less effective.
Here are just a few myths contained in the book Because There Is No Plan B is a breakdown of common myths and misunderstandings and the consequences of not seeking early detection:
“If I don’t have symptoms, I don’t have prostate cancer.
Reality: Early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms at all. Many men feel fine until the disease has advanced, at which point it can be much harder to treat. By the time symptoms like difficulty urinating, pain, or blood in the urine appear, the cancer may have already spread.
Consequence: Without early screening, a man may unknowingly have aggressive prostate cancer that progresses unchecked.’
“Prostate cancer is slow-growing, so I don’t need to worry.”
Reality: While some types of prostate cancer grow slowly, others are aggressive and can spread rapidly to bones, lymph nodes, and other organs.
Consequence: Assuming all prostate cancer is slow-growing leads some men to delay or refuse treatment, increasing the risk of it becoming incurable.
“I don’t have a family history, so I’m not at risk.“
Reality: While family history increases the risk, many men diagnosed with prostate cancer have no known family history. Lifestyle factors, genetics, and even race (African American men are at higher risk) also play a role.
Consequence: Men with no family history may skip screenings, falsely believing they are not at risk—only to find out too late that they were.
All this and muvh more is available in the book, audio book, newsletter or podcast.
“Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, yet it remains surrounded by myths, stigma, and misconceptions that prevent early detection and timely treatment. Many men ignore symptoms, avoid screenings, or downplay risks, often leading to late-stage diagnoses when treatment options are more limited, invasive, and less effective.
Here are just a few myths contained in the book Because There Is No Plan B is a breakdown of common myths and misunderstandings and the consequences of not seeking early detection:
“If I don’t have symptoms, I don’t have prostate cancer.
Reality: Early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms at all. Many men feel fine until the disease has advanced, at which point it can be much harder to treat. By the time symptoms like difficulty urinating, pain, or blood in the urine appear, the cancer may have already spread.
Consequence: Without early screening, a man may unknowingly have aggressive prostate cancer that progresses unchecked
Things You Should Really Know
Why This Matters And A Call To Action
- Men’s reluctance to talk about prostate cancer proactively is literally killing them. By bringing conversations into workplaces, homes, social spaces, digital platforms, and support networks, we can normalize discussions, encourage screenings, and ultimately save lives.
- The hope and goal of creating this book is to encourage you to help start the conversation beginning with you while encouraging others to be screened and become a part of this vision.
- The choice isn’t between talking or not talking it’s between life or loss.
- Read the book or listen to it.
- Let’s make these conversations happen enrich, help those with the disease live fuller, healthier lives and create awareness and urgency to make preventative understanding and actions a part of every man’s must do now checklist.
Enter The Healing Power Of Creativity
As a Stage IV cancer patient who has lived a life steeped in music, art, and communications, your creativity is not just powerful—it’s transcendent. It becomes both compass and vessel: a way to process the unspeakable, connect to others, and leave behind a legacy that isn’t defined by diagnosis, but by depth.
Creativity during this experience isn’t about distraction—it’s about distillation. You take everything: the fear, the courage, the losses, the small joys, the absurdity of hospital rooms, the weight of mortality—and you transform it into something that resonates. Art gives voice to what the body endures. Music lets your spirit rise when the weight is heavy. Communication helps shape your story into something that others can carry, learn from, and even be changed by.
In this space, legacy isn’t a distant future concept—it’s built in real time. Every piece you make, every lyric you write, every story you share becomes part of a living archive. And for the heart, mind, and soul—creativity is healing in its purest form. It gives purpose where pain tries to plant doubt. It restores dignity where illness tries to take control. It reminds you, and everyone around you, that you are still the author of your story.
Your art is not just about what you’ve done—it’s about who you are. And through it, you don’t just endure. One echoes.
Here’s Some Who Have Done Just That With Their Lives Post Diagnosis
Audre Lorde
Poet, Activist, Survivor
Diagnosed with breast cancer in the late 1970s, Lorde responded through writing. Her landmark book, The Cancer Journals, gave voice to the physical and emotional toll of her diagnosis, challenging the silence around illness, especially for Black women. Her work helped redefine survivorship as activism and vulnerability as strength.
Kris Carr
Filmmaker, Wellness Advocate
Diagnosed with a rare, incurable Stage IV cancer in her 30s, Carr turned her experience into the documentary Crazy Sexy Cancer, then built a thriving platform for holistic wellness. Her books and talks offer hope, nutrition advice, and emotional resilience for those facing chronic illness.
David Bowie
Musician, Visual Artist
Bowie was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2014 but kept it private. In his final album, Blackstar (released two days before his death), he transformed his experience into a haunting, profound meditation on death, art, and transcendence. The entire project—songs, visuals, lyrics—was an intentional act of creative closure and spiritual release.
Susan Gubar
Scholar, Memoirist
After being diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer, Gubar wrote Memoir of a Debulked Woman, a brutally honest yet deeply intellectual account of her cancer experience. A celebrated professor of literature, she used her writing to challenge medical norms and shed light on what it means to live in a female body battling a relentless disease.
Henri Matisse
Painter, Cut-Out Innovator
After abdominal cancer surgery left him bedridden in his 70s, Matisse reinvented his creative process. He began working with paper cut-outs—a new form of art he called “painting with scissors.” This late-in-life reinvention produced some of his most iconic works, including The Snail and The Blue Nudes. “Only what I created after the illness constitutes my real self: free, liberated.” – Matisse
Stuart Scott
ESPN Broadcaster
While undergoing grueling treatments for cancer, Scott remained on-air, using his platform to inspire millions. At the 2014 ESPYs, he said:
“You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live.”He helped destigmatize illness for men of color, especially in high-performance and sports culture.”
These Lives More Than Endured. They Thrived. So Can You.
They each turned pain into beauty, clarity, and activism. Their work became more raw, personal, and spiritually resonant after diagnosis. They reached beyond their own experience to uplift others—patients, families, doctors, and advocates. They often found a new medium or fresh voice as part of the journey.
Gilda Radner
Comedy as Coping
Cancer Type: Ovarian cancer Legacy: One of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live, Radner used humor to navigate the darkest corners of her cancer journey. After her passing, her husband Gene Wilder helped establish Gilda’s Club, a network of support spaces for those affected by cancer, transforming personal loss into collective healing.
John Diamond
The Patient as Storyteller
Cancer Type: Throat cancer. Legacy: A British journalist who documented his battle with cancer in the column “With the Greatest of Respect” and later in his book C: Because Cowards Get Cancer Too. His writing was unsentimental, raw, and often darkly funny—a powerful account of facing illness without clichés.
Warren Zevon
Facing the End with Songs
Cancer Type: Mesothelioma. Legacy: After being diagnosed in 2002, the legendary singer-songwriter poured himself into his final album, The Wind, featuring emotionally raw tracks like “Keep Me in Your Heart.” The album is a love letter, a farewell, and a declaration of life in the face of death.
Art | Music | Creativity Are My Medicine, They Always Have Been
And that’s why, once the diagnosis was confirmed, the path forward revealed itself with undeniable clarity. We didn’t force it—we simply listened to what life, and the heart, were trying to say. It began with a deep assessment of what truly mattered… and then we gave ourselves permission to create. To heal. To build something lasting.
That’s how the art gallery project was born—not as a business, but as a calling. A place where vision, vulnerability, and decades of experience in music, design, communication, and storytelling could merge into something tangible, beautiful, and alive.
Art has always been more than a medium for us—it’s a mirror, a release, a roadmap. It became the key to how I define my legacy. So we committed to it fully. Creating every day. Curating with intention. And always being available to help others reconnect with their own creative core—especially those who, like us, are walking through fire and still reaching for light.
We didn’t just build a gallery—we built a sanctuary for resilience, passion, and purpose. One brushstroke, one story, one soul at a time.
A Little Bit About Our Gallery
Now The Distelheim Galley™ is reimagined and managed by the daughter of the original gallery owner our hope is that this online experience captures the by gone essence where In the early 1960’s, a young and successful Chicago dermatologist named Irving Distelheim MD, tired of playing golf on his day off, instead began visitng various art galleries on and around the city’s famed Oak Street. Bringing the Chicago Oak Street Luxury Shopping Experience to one of the most varied and unique art collections and experiences online and in limited live exhibition
A Little Bit About Our Gallery
The Distelheim Galley™ is reimagined and managed by the daughter of the original gallery owner and her partner, Jefferey Cornett with the hope is that this online experience captures the by gone essence where In the early 1960’s, a young and successful Chicago dermatologist named Irving Distelheim MD, tired of playing golf on his day off, instead began visitng various art galleries on and around the city’s famed Oak Street. Bringing the Chicago Oak Street Luxury Shopping Experience to one of the most varied and unique art collections and experiences online and in limited live exhibition. It allows for our passion and vision with art and healing to exist and grow.
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Each piece of art is not merely an object of aestheticadmiration but a profound journey into the mind of its creator and the cultures that shape its essence. Our proprietary collections are not just curated but created with the gallery brand in mind under the guiding principle that “Each Work Is A Journey,”inviting our patrons to embark on an exploratory path that traverses historical epochs, dances across the contours of diverse geographies, and delves into the myriad human emotions captured by our art.
A Little Bit About Us
Lisa Barron, an award winning journalist, writer, producer and Jefferey Cornett, a long time marketing and creative professional are a remarkable couple whose lives intertwine art, resilience, and love. As dedicated professionals in the art world, they have cultivated a shared vision that celebrates creativity and expression. Their journey took a profound turn when faced with the challenges of cancer, a battle that tested their strength and unity. Through this adversity, Lisa and Jefferey found solace and healing in their artistic endeavors, transforming their personal struggle into a source of inspiration for others. Their commitment to art as both a business and a therapeutic outlet underscores their belief in its power to heal and connect. Together, they continue to navigate the complexities of life and illness, using their experiences to enrich their work and to offer hope and encouragement to those facing similar trials.
A Little Bit About Us
Lisa Barron, an award winning journalist, writer, producer and Jefferey Cornett, a long time marketing and creative professional are a remarkable couple whose lives intertwine art, resilience, and love. As dedicated professionals in the art world, they have cultivated a shared vision that celebrates creativity and expression. Their journey took a profound turn when faced with the challenges of cancer, a battle that tested their strength and unity. Through this adversity, Lisa and Jefferey found solace and healing in their artistic endeavors, transforming their personal struggle into a source of inspiration for others. Their commitment to art as both a business and a therapeutic outlet underscores their belief in its power to heal and connect. Together, they continue to navigate the complexities of life and illness, using their experiences to enrich their work and to offer hope and encouragement to those facing similar trials.
In The Chicago Studio Office
Jefferey Cornett in his Chicago studio office—a creative sanctuary lined with instruments, framed memories, and a deep sense of artistic legacy. With a contemplative expression and a backdrop that reflects a life immersed in music, media, and visual storytelling, the image captures the quiet resilience of an artist and strategist still hard at work. Every object in the frame tells a part of his journey, from mandolins and Cubs caps to artwork and accolades—each symbolizing a chapter of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Us With Our Pug Child Bogart
A very cherished moment with Lisa, Jefferey, and their beloved rescue pug, Bogart—an 18-year-old soul who brought boundless love, laughter, and loyalty into their lives. Rescued from Newark, Bogart wasn’t just a pet; he was family, their “pug child,” and a comforting constant through countless chapters. Even in his later years, his expressive eyes and unshakable spirit lit up their home. They lost him in December 2023, but his presence remains deeply woven into their hearts and memories, a testament to the power of unconditional love and second chances.
Ringing The Bell After Six Weeks of Radiation
Here we are at Mayo proudly around a man ringing the bell—an honored tradition symbolizing the end of a grueling treatment journey. The plaque above the bell reads “The Sound of Hope,” marking a milestone after six weeks of radiation. Surrounded by supportive medical staff and loved ones, the moment captures both relief and resilience. The smiles, body language, and the ceremonial act itself speak to the strength it takes to endure cancer treatment—and the deep gratitude for those who help carry the burden along the way.
Lisa Winning A Significant Award For Stories About Saddam
Here’s award-winning journalist Lisa Barron takes the stage to accept the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award, honoring her exceptional reporting from Iraq during the capture of Saddam Hussein. With poise and professionalism, Lisa stands beneath the spotlight as her image is projected across the auditorium—symbolizing not only personal achievement but also the power of fearless journalism in moments of global consequence. Her courageous work brought clarity and insight during a time of chaos, earning her a place among the most respected voices in international reporting.
ACS Award for Being A Volunteer of The Year
Here’s a blast from the past meaningful recognition from the American Cancer Society, awarded to Jeff Cornett as the 1987–88 New Volunteer of the Year. Jeff earned this honor for producing a bold and imaginative pro-wrestling fundraising event in Kansas City titled Fight For Life. The event brought together the worlds of sports entertainment and philanthropy, raising crucial funds and awareness for cancer control. Decades before his own diagnosis, Jeff’s commitment to the cause reflected both his creative spirit and deep compassion—qualities that continue to define his journey today.
Lisa With Our New Little Rescue Guy, Collin
Here’s Lisa beaming in Milwaukee alongside their newest family member—Colin, a spirited little pug rescued from Korea. Bundled up in his red coat, Colin stands proudly in front of a glowing LOVE sculpture, a perfect backdrop for the joy and new beginnings he’s brought into their lives. After the heartbreaking loss of Bogart, Colin arrived as a bright light—offering comfort, companionship, and a reminder that love always finds its way back.
Yes I Now Have Scrubs of My Own
Here’s a moment of resilience and humor as Jeff sports his very own set of Mayo Clinic scrubs—an unintended but now all-too-familiar wardrobe staple. Despite the seriousness of ongoing treatments and countless appointments, he manages to bring a sense of calm and lightness to the journey. With his signature round glasses and quiet strength, Jeff faces each day with determination, courage, and a touch of wit, proving that even in the most clinical of settings, personality and spirit still shine through.
SAY CHEESE WITH THE BOGART FILES
Meet Bogart—the floppy-eared, cheese-obsessed detective at the heart of The Bogart Files. Inspired by his real-life namesake, this animated hound is part basset, part bloodhound, and 100% devoted to sniffing out crime (and cheddar). With his signature droopy gaze and a nose that never lies, Bogart helps his partners Jeff and Justin unravel the most bizarre mysteries in Chicago—often involving missing diamonds, mobsters, and, of course, mysterious cheese balls. Whether it’s a case to crack or a snack to steal, Bogart proves that every great detective needs a sharp wit… and a sharp cheddar.
Lisa Loves The Ducks At The Peabody In Memphis
This charming photo captures Lisa in one of her happiest places—the grand lobby of The Peabody Hotel in Memphis, eagerly awaiting the world-famous duck parade. Surrounded by the elegant Southern charm of the historic hotel, Lisa beams with quiet joy as the Duckmaster prepares to lead the beloved Peabody Ducks on their daily red carpet march. It’s a whimsical tradition she absolutely adores, and every visit fills her with delight, reminding her that sometimes it’s the simple, quirky rituals—like ducks marching through a hotel—that bring the biggest smiles.
Dad Dancing With The Bride At Her Wedding
This tender moment captures Jeff dancing with his oldest daughter on her wedding day—a quiet, emotional pause in the middle of a joyous celebration. As father and daughter hold each other close, years of memories seem to swirl in that embrace: bedtime stories, scraped knees, first days of school, and now, this milestone of love and new beginnings. For Jeff, the dance wasn’t just tradition—it was a symbol of pride, gratitude, and the unbreakable bond between a dad and his little girl, now all grown up.
Here’s a young Jefferey sitting barefoot on the front porch of the pink house on Marc Street in Salina, Kansas, around 1962. Clad in his pajamas and full of quiet wonder, he gazes out into the world with the early stirrings of a creative spirit already taking root. Even then, Jefferey was a dreamer—conjuring up stories, sketching out ideas in his mind, and imagining a future where art, music, and big ideas would shape his life. That porch became his launchpad, a small step into a lifetime of making things that matter.
Salina, Kansas in 1962 was a near-perfect place to be a kid. It offered the kind of wholesome, wide-open childhood that now feels almost mythical. The town was small enough to feel safe, but big enough to spark imagination—with local diners, friendly neighbors, and the hum of community events. Kids rode bikes until dusk, built forts in backyards, and caught fireflies in mason jars. There was room to dream, to explore, and to grow without the noise of today’s digital world. Saturday mornings meant cartoons, followed by afternoons of barefoot adventure. In Salina, the sky seemed bigger, the summers longer, and the possibilities endless—especially for a kid like Jefferey, already full of ideas and creativity, soaking up the space and stillness that would one day feed a lifetime of artistic and imaginative work.
Here’s a young Jefferey sitting barefoot on the front porch of the pink house on Marc Street in Salina, Kansas, around 1962. Clad in his pajamas and full of quiet wonder, he gazes out into the world with the early stirrings of a creative spirit already taking root. Even then, Jefferey was a dreamer—conjuring up stories, sketching out ideas in his mind, and imagining a future where art, music, and big ideas would shape his life. That porch became his launchpad, a small step into a lifetime of making things that matter.
Salina, Kansas in 1962 was a near-perfect place to be a kid. It offered the kind of wholesome, wide-open childhood that now feels almost mythical. The town was small enough to feel safe, but big enough to spark imagination—with local diners, friendly neighbors, and the hum of community events. Kids rode bikes until dusk, built forts in backyards, and caught fireflies in mason jars. There was room to dream, to explore, and to grow without the noise of today’s digital world. Saturday mornings meant cartoons, followed by afternoons of barefoot adventure. In Salina, the sky seemed bigger, the summers longer, and the possibilities endless—especially for a kid like Jefferey, already full of ideas and creativity, soaking up the space and stillness that would one day feed a lifetime of artistic and imaginative work.
Yes, I Was A Clown On TV
The juxtaposition of two creative lives—Jefferey Cornett as Zap, the beloved clown and host of a family-friendly game show on KMBC-TV 9, and Jefferey today, as a seasoned artist. For three unforgettable years, he brought joy, laughter, and curiosity into Kansas City living rooms through Hearst Argyle’s local programming. As Zap, he connected with kids and families alike, blending humor with heart. Now, with paintbrush in hand instead of a mic, Jefferey continues to tell stories—this time through canvas, color, and memory. Yes, I Used to Be a Clown on TV… Now I Make Art is more than a title—it’s a full-circle journey.
The Adventure With Rhino Tech
How about working with entrepreneur extraordinaire Gerald “Jerry” Chamales is an American entrepreneur, film producer and philanthropist and was the founder of Rhinotek when we flew in our friend here, Kusamo, from New Wales South Australia to Fossil Rim Texas to his new home where we spent two weeks working on filming and even had two young prairie dogs named after us. Chamales has since forged a successful career in the film industry as a producer of The Irishman, which went on to garner 10 nominations at the 92nd Academy Awards. He also produced the acclaimed animated short If Anything Happens I Love You, which was named Best Animated Short Film at the 93rd Academy Awards.
The Kids In Burbank At AGT Audition
Just before the world hit pause with the onset of COVID, The Kids touched down in Burbank, buzzing with excitement for their big shot at the America’s Got Talent auditions. With the Hollywood sign gleaming behind them and a Southwest plane still fresh from landing, their arrival was nothing short of cinematic. This quirky cast of characters—a soulful hound, a sharp-tongued granny, a wide-eyed dreamer, and a fuzzy blue misfit—were ready to light up the stage with their charm, wit, and unexpected talent.
It was a moment filled with anticipation, laughter, and just a touch of chaos—the calm before a global storm. Little did they know that their audition would be one of the last live bursts of joy before the world shut its doors and turned to screens for connection.
Nashville, RCA and Eddie Arnold
In this photo, Jeff stands in front of the legendary RCA Studio B in Nashville—a sacred space in country music history. It was here, after being discovered by country icon Eddie Arnold and renowned manager Gerry Purcell, that Jeff began his journey into professional songwriting. Surrounded by the echoes of Elvis, Chet Atkins, and Dolly Parton, he soaked in the spirit of the studio, channeling its legacy into his own creative voice. For Jeff, this wasn’t just a photo op—it was a full-circle moment in the place where his musical dreams first took flight.
Justin, Me and Bogart At The Opera
Dressed to the nines and ready for a night of high notes and hijinks, Justin, Jeff, and Bogart piled into the back of a car on their way to the opera. Justin, ever the eager ventriloquist’s sidekick, looked sharp in his red sweater, while Bogart the Basset Hound brought his signature soulful gaze and love of fine cheese to the occasion. Jeff, in a classic tux and bowtie, was the glue holding this quirky trio together—equal parts showman, storyteller, and chauffeur. It wasn’t your typical opera night, but with this crew, it was bound to be unforgettable.
LA For Fortune Battle of The Bands
Under the hot lights of L.A.’s iconic El Rey Theatre, Jefferey Cornett slid behind his Yamaha keyboard, wearing dark shades, a vintage pink shirt, and a look that said, let’s make some noise. It was the Fortune Magazine Battle of the Bands—a high-energy faceoff between corporate rockstars and industry rebels, where boardroom suits traded spreadsheets for Stratocasters. Jeff, representing both creativity and hustle, had the crowd grooving from the first chord.
For one electric night, the lines between commerce and creativity blurred. As he belted harmonies and laid down smooth synths, Jeff reminded the crowd that true talent knows no cubicle, and no stage is too big when you play with heart. It wasn’t just about winning the battle—it was about proving that the music always finds its way through.
INTRODUCING
FC | Because There Is No Plan B™ Merchandise
The shirt that started it all. FC: Because There Is No Plan B™ isn’t just a shirt—it’s a statement of relentless determination. Designed for those who refuse to quit, this bold and minimalist design embodies a mindset of perseverance, grit, and unwavering commitment
FC Because There Is No Plan B Book
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The FC Water Bottle
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The FC Blue Blanket
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THE FC LUNCH BAG
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FC Because There Is No Plan B Audio
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The FC Bracelet
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THE FC MERCHANDISE CATALOGE
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THE FC MEDIUM SIZE TOTE
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The Original FC Classic T-Shirt
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The FC Black Baseball Hat
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THE FC BLUE BANDANA
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THE FC BLACK T-SHIRT
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FC | Because There Is No Plan B
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