Watch CBS News

Jenn Lyons Remembered on "Survivor"

"Survivor: Palau" contestant Jennifer Lyon, who died of breast cancer in January, was remembered Sunday night during the "Heroes vs. Villains" reunion show.

Host Jeff Probst showed a montage of images of Lyon's 2004 stint on Palau, where she placed fourth. The show aired in 2005, when Lyons was a graduate student.

She was diagnosed with cancer shortly after completing the season and underwent a bilateral mastectomy and chemotherapy treatments. She became an advocate for breast cancer awareness and hosted many fundraisers for breast cancer research. Just last year, she opened a Christmas tree lot with proceeds going to the cause.

"Survivor: Nicaragua" is Next
Photos: "Survivor: Palau"
"Survivor" Winner: Sandra Diaz-Twine
"Survivor" Through the Seasons
Photos: Heroes vs. Villains
"Survivor" Sandra Diaz-Twine Receives $1M

Lyons' death at age 37 in January shocked the entire "Survivor" community. "If I learned anything from Jenn it is this: Don't be afraid to ask someone how they are truly feeling about dying," Probst continued. "Don't shy away from the scary parts of death. They need someone to talk to about what is going on inside their head."

After her diagnosis, Lyon told the magazine that her experiences on "Survivor" had given her strength that helped her battle her disease.

"'Survivor' taught me there's an end in sight," she said. "As hard as it is, it will be over, and you have to appreciate every day."

View CBS News In
CBS News App
Chrome Safari
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.