Agnus Berenato- Cancer Survivor
Choosing Purpose Over Fear
Agnus’s story is about much more than surviving cancer. It’s about choosing purpose over fear.
A legendary coach and respected leader in women’s basketball, Agnus Berenato has experienced cancer from every angle. She lost her mother, Theresa, to breast cancer, stepping away from coaching to care for her during her illness. Years later, she would face cancer herself—not once, but twice—becoming a two-time cancer survivor. Today, she continues to inspire others through speaking, mentoring, and advocating for those facing life’s toughest challenges.
For most people, Agnus is known for the wins, championships, and lives she changed from the sidelines. But her greatest lessons have come away from the game.
The loss of her mother forever changed her perspective, strengthening her belief that leadership is about showing up for others when they need you most. When she was later diagnosed with cancer herself, she leaned on that same resilience and faith, choosing not to let cancer define her, but instead deepen her purpose.
Agnus often says, “I believe in days, not dates. I make moments and memories.” It’s a philosophy that reminds us to embrace each day with purpose and use whatever
platform we’ve been given to make a difference in the lives of others.
Today, Agnus encourages others to embrace each day with gratitude, courage, and joy. Whether she’s mentoring young leaders, speaking to organizations, or supporting women facing cancer, her message remains the same: life’s greatest victories aren’t measured by the scoreboard—they’re measured by the lives we impact along the way.
Stories like Agnus’s remind us why the Kay Yow Cancer Fund exists. Every day, we see survivors, coaches, student-athletes, partners, and supporters choosing to turn adversity into action. Together, they’re helping fund groundbreaking research, expand access to quality cancer care for under-resourced women, and create hope for countless women and families facing cancer.