As many of you know, Jessica has been going through a difficult time and experiencing a number of urgent health issues since her admission to the Halifax Infirmary on Christmas Day.

After countless tests, treatments and weeks in the IMCU (Intermediate Care Unit), Jessica was eventually diagnosed with Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer with Metastasis to the liver and lungs.

As you can imagine this news would be devastating and blindsiding for anyone, especially for a 30 year old woman who is passionate and driven and working hard to build the life she’s always dreamed of.

Jess and I have been best friends for about 20 years. In that time (and even long before) she has had to face more than her fair share of adversity. Anyone who knows Jess can attest to her strength and determination to not let things that she cannot control affect her. In the weeks since her diagnosis she has drawn on that strength and determination to give her and her loved ones hope. While the road ahead will be long and physically demanding, she is determined to keep fighting and to take each day head on.

By her side day and night through this ordeal is her devoted husband, Cole. His constant presence, love, steadiness and advocacy for her care has been a light while navigating these difficult days, difficult conversations, and the uncertainty that comes with news like this. Also by her side is a village of family, friends and loved ones, whose presence provides comfort and distraction.

The goal now is for the medical team to stabilize her condition by mitigating her multitude of current symptoms. Upon doing so she will be able to begin next steps working towards a treatment plan set out by her oncologist.

Jess has a beautiful, compassionate and kind soul. Always first to give her time, energy and resources to help those around her. Always the first to reach out a hand to support someone who’s down on their luck. Now she’s the one who needs support.

With their permission, I am setting up this GoFundMe for Jess and Cole to help ease the significant financial burden that comes with prolonged hospitalization and treatment, time away from work, travel, medications, and the many unforeseen expenses that arise during a medical crisis of this magnitude. Most of all, it is a way for friends, family, and loved ones to rally around them with tangible support.

If you are able to donate, share, or send words of encouragement, please know that every act of kindness makes a difference. Your support helps create space for healing. It is a constant reminder for Jess and Cole that they are deeply loved and not facing this alone.

Thank you for standing with Jess!