Dancer Tiffany Glenn died Monday at the age of 33 after a six-year battle with cancer. Glenn, who performed with Ballet San Jose, calmly and unflinchingly confronted the illness with a courage and resolve that moved her friends and colleagues.
She was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in June 2006 at the age of 27. After undergoing a mastectomy, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, she returned to Ballet San Jose with a shaved head to dance in the Nutcracker that December.
A Nichiren Buddhist by choice, Glenn performed with Dance Theatre of Harlem and trained at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center before coming to California. She taught hip hop dance at a San Jose dance school when she wasn’t with the ballet.
In 2009, she choreographed a contemporary three-part ballet to a trio of songs from the soul singer John Legend. “I wanted to expose people to the idea that we don’t have to always have ballet to classical music,” Glenn said.
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Ann Thorne Thu, Jun 21, 2012 - 6:24 am
To the entire Hurt/Glenn family, words cannot express the life Tiffany lived, but our actions to you will show that we care about the pain you currently feel. Please know that the pain will subside but the happy memories live on. Tammy I remember when you moved away from our block and on your return there was a beautiful child with you and that was Tiffany. A very poised child she was. Now that she is gone I reflect on that pretty little girl who was attached to you everywhere you go. Remember the happy times and smile as often as Tiffany did. Rest in the Father’s Arms my dear and we will meet again.
My Mia Moore Thu, Jun 21, 2012 - 7:51 am
She was “PURE JOY” I remember her as a (2 year old) She wass the smartest, kindness , and lovely child I had ever meet.
I am also Blessed that this “Sweet Soul” passed my path.
She will be missed ..Sending my Deepest Sympathy to her mom Tammy and sending the entire family LOVE and LIGHT during this sad time.
May you Rest In Peace Lovely One….:)
Monique Code Thu, Jun 21, 2012 - 10:15 am
WOW! Gone too soon! I did not know this Angel but she was a part of the entire dance family. I am so sorry she is gone but she is in a better place. She is no longer suffering from the crazy disease that took her away from us. Rest In Peace Queen! You are greatly missed and thank you for your inspiration and gift of dance.
Willie Anderson Fri, Jun 22, 2012 - 12:43 am
Tiffany,
Just as treasures are uncovered from the earth, so virtue appears from good deeds, and wisdom appears from a pure and peaceful mind. To walk safely through the maze of human life, one needs the light of wisdom and the guidance of virtue.
I will miss you! Thank you my dance partner!!
James Conrad Fri, Jun 22, 2012 - 9:28 am
You were such a gentle soul and so kind to everyone who crossed paths with you. As sad as I am that you are no longer around, I will always be glad I met you.
May the road rise to meet you, and may God carry you in the palm of His hand.
Michelle Sloan Fri, Jul 20, 2012 - 2:40 pm
You will be greatly missed but never forgotten. We love you. Much love from Jones and Haywood. Much love my beautiful dancing Unicorn.
Jeff Neal Sun, Jul 22, 2012 - 4:12 pm
I just learned of Tiffany’s passing. We met when she was first diagnosed. Although I knew her for a short time, I could tell that she was a special person and I’m glad that our paths crossed. I am a better person for having her touch my life.
Queens Real Estate Institute Tue, Jul 31, 2012 - 8:53 pm
It’s amazing how many people agree with you here. Nice writing style.