Help Jen Battle Breast Cancer

You must know by now that our dear Jen battled breast cancer last year. She has undergone chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and radiation treatments bravely and with incredible strength and optimism. Unfortunately, the cancer has metastasized to the cerebrospinal fluid which is diagnosed as Leptomeningeal metastases. As you can imagine this is devastating news for Jen and her family. Since the new diagnosis nearly five weeks ago, she underwent another round of month-long radiation treatments five days a week with hopes of slowing down the cancer. Doctors are doing everything they can to extend her life, but it still leaves us wondering how much time we have left with her. Within this short timespan, she lost her hair again, she’s having more difficulty seeing, thinking logically, has sporadic seizures, and loses mobility of her right arm and leg. Luckily, it looks like she will be accepted to start an immunotherapy trial, which uses the body's own immune system to attack the cancer cells. These trials have been successful and show positive results with Jen's type of cancer. Also, on Friday, July 14th she will find out if she will require brain surgery to install a stint to receive the immunotherapy medications.

Many of you have asked how you can help. After speaking with Jen and her family, it seems the best way we can help her on this journey is to assist with medical expenses, meals, house cleaning, and other essentials the family is struggling with. It would be great to ease Jen’s burdens so she can fully focus on her health and her 9 year old daughter Lilah. Every little bit counts, thank you in advance for caring and helping a friend in need. 

Jen has mentioned that one of her wishes is for your prayers and words of encouragement as she goes through this difficult time.