PAYING IT FORWARD FOR JEN

 9  months ago my cousin Jen helped save my life.
It's now time for me to pay it forward ~ Alex C.

A brief synopsis of Jen's story:

First let me start by telling you how I would describe Jen - Completely selfless, warm, compassionate, loving, wise, strong, survivor, tough as nails and a positively radiant personality.  Those of you who know her know that there are many more positive words you can add to describe her.  Not a bad bone in her body.  Please listen to her story and help her through this difficult time.

Back in February 2013 Jen was diagnosed with colon cancer at the age of 38. She was operated on that March to remove a tumor.  A few days after being discharged from the hospital, she became very ill due to a leak in her colon from the surgery.  Emergency surgery was performed and she was given an ileostomy which was reversed 6 months later. 

Jen has fared well these last two years and is cancer free today.  Earlier this year everyone was overjoyed to find out that Jen was pregnant with her first child.
Five days ago while on a visit to NY from Portland, Oregon to attend her baby shower, she became very sick.  A visit to the emergency room followed by a few days of testing would reveal that an unknown result of her previous emergency surgeries is that Jen had developed adhesions in her small intestine which created a number of life-threatening blockages.   She would have to be operated on, and not laparoscopically.  Any surgery is a risk but for Jen, being 6 ms pregnant, it would be much riskier.  The doctor's performed a tough but successful surgery.  Her unborn baby boy was unaffected and doing well.

Now, though, will be the tough part.  Jen will have a long road to recovery ahead of her rendering her unable to work at her job for a land trust in Portland for some time.  She had saved all her vacation time from work to use when the baby was born.  Now though, she is using that time up while being in the hospital and the recovery following that. Her significant other, Tony is in NY by her side.  He has had to take time off from work as well.

There will be many uncovered expenses & lost wages due to this unfortunate time in their lives and the recovery that follows for Jen.    If we could raise enough money to help them through this, it may also allow Jen to take unpaid time off when the baby is born. 

Thank you to all who donate ~ Alex
and thanks from all of Jen's family and friends