Shannon Marie Romanchuk Saturno (posthumously)
Shannon Marie Romanchuk Saturno spent all her primary school years in West Babylon. In high school, Shannon served as class president all four years, served as a student ambassador representing West Babylon on two overseas trips, and graduated with high honors. Early on Shannon was a cheerleader for the West Babylon conference league, and then developed a love for dance and spent many years dancing at the June Claire Dance Center. Another passion of Shannon’s was the beach. She worked at Overlook Beach for about 6 years, which became one of her favorite places to relax with her family and friends. This past summer, the Town of Babylon dedicated a playground in her honor. Shannon received a bachelor’s degree in education from Mount Saint Mary College in 2005 and a master’s degree in literacy from Long Island University. Shannon was a 3rd Grade Special Education teacher in the Babylon Grade School. On February 2, 2007, Shannon met the love of her life Kevin Saturno. They got engaged in Disney World in April 2009 and were married on July 15, 2011. In August of 2013, Shannon was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer while in her 6th month of pregnancy. Shannon immediately started her treatments while pregnant and on November 12th, 2013 gave birth to a healthy little girl, Siena Hope. Shannon was only in remission for a short time when the cancer came back. During her entire journey, Shannon shared her story on Social Media, fighting each and every day and inspiring others to do the same. In May of 2016, she was transferred to Hospice and even then remained positive and kept her strong faith in God. Sadly, the cancer took Shannon from us on July 10th 2016, but the cancer never took her will, her spirit and her determination to love all those close to her. Shannon was put to rest on July 15th 2016, which would have been her 5th year wedding anniversary. Since her passing, she continues to inspire those affected with this horrible disease. Shannon worked closely with First Company Pink, a non-profit organization, where she depicted her story with a video. Currently, this video is being played in schools around the island to promote awareness to high school students to check themselves, know their family history and not be afraid to talk about cancer. There is also a “Shannon’s Law”, Bill #A06731B, that has unanimously passed through various NYS committees. We are waiting for its final approval. This bill will allow women to get mammograms at the age of 35. Shannon did and continues to inspire many. Her legacy will live on and Siena Hope will know how loving, caring and compassionate her mommy was. Thank you so much. Our family is very touched by this beautiful honor.