Following the media preview of The Adventure Jar, we received a copy and it turned out to be so much more than just another children’s book. It’s a powerful reminder of how stories can open hearts, build understanding, and support families during life’s hardest moments.
Tucked away in the cosy White Room at Esplanade, families gathered to experience something truly unique, a puppet performance, craft activities, and most importantly, an emotional journey told through the eyes of a child. The hero of the day? A children’s storybook that dares to explore a topic many parents struggle to talk about breast cancer.
The Adventure Jar, a storybook that speaks when words are hard
Launched by Gilead Sciences in close collaboration with Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) and members of the metastatic breast cancer (MBC) community, The Adventure Jar is no ordinary tale. It was made for families living with cancer, by families who have experienced it. The book follows the story of a young family facing MBC, showing how even in the face of fear, uncertainty and change, magical moments of connection and joy can still be found.
BCF’s newly launched public event, The Adventure Jar: A Magical Journey of Miracles, invites parents and children to experience the story in a meaningful, interactive setting. Beyond storytelling, children get to make their own “adventure jars” and participate in guided activities that help spark open, age-appropriate conversations about illness at home.
Bridging the emotional gap at home
While breast cancer is often discussed in adult circles, many families are unsure how to explain it to young children. The emotional weight, fear of saying the wrong thing, or simply not having the right words can make it difficult for parents to start these conversations.
That’s where The Adventure Jar steps in.
Recent findings from a BCF–Gilead survey highlight just how widespread this communication challenge is. Nearly 60 percent of participants found it emotionally difficult to talk to their children about their diagnosis. Almost 85 percent felt their children did not understand the illness, and over half had not sought out any tools or resources—often because none seemed suitable for children.
The book fills this critical gap. Through gentle storytelling, it helps children understand what their parent is going through, while offering parents the language and tools to make these conversations feel less daunting.
Rooted in real voices, illustrated with love
Eight women living with MBC and a psychiatrist were closely involved in shaping the story’s narrative. Their lived experiences bring authenticity and emotional depth to the book. Italian illustrator Alexandra Colombo, who has lost loved ones to cancer, adds a gentle and expressive touch to each page—creating visuals that are comforting and relatable for young readers.
“Children often sense emotional shifts but are left out of the conversation,” shared Mae Pang, Head of Advocacy and Communications at BCF. “This book offers a way to bridge that gap with empathy and love.”
It’s also deeply personal for people like Dawn Chan, a BCF member and TNBC survivor with two young children. “Explaining my diagnosis to my kids was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. I didn’t want to frighten them, but I also didn’t want to hide the truth. The Adventure Jar is the kind of resource I wish I had then,” she shared at the event.
Creating moments that matter
Beyond its beautifully written story, The Adventure Jar reminds families that even during illness, there are still moments to treasure. Whether it’s crafting together, sharing a book at bedtime, or simply having an honest chat—these are the little miracles that bring hope.
Gilead Sciences’ Cathy Su, General Manager for Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore, summed it up best. “This thoughtful narrative offers children a gentle yet powerful perspective—that even during life’s most challenging transitions, joy and connection can flourish through shared family experiences.”
A step forward in family-centred care
Available in both hardcover and digital formats (in English and Mandarin), The Adventure Jar is now accessible to families across Singapore. It is part of a larger commitment by BCF and Gilead to provide more compassionate, inclusive support for the breast cancer community.
As breast cancer diagnoses continue to affect more women, many of them mothers, tools like this are vital. Because illness affects the whole family, not just the patient. And every child deserves to feel seen, supported and safe.
To learn more about the book and download your copy, visit BCF’s official website.
