Hi! Fran here. Chances are great that if you're reading this, you've seen the same person pop up in my photos of various adventures dating back to 2006: The incomparable Renee Jolly.

Renee and I have been road-tripping, dancing, and hiking our way around the U.S. since I had my first job out of college at THE Biltmore. I knew we were destined to be friends because, unbeknownst to us, we both had the same pair of blaze orange pants with bumblebees all over them. Over time we've bonded over heartaches, successes, and the quest to enjoy life to the fullest. She has been a shoulder to cry on, an empathetic and galvanizing sidekick, and an inspiring example of self-sufficiency and curiosity for the world.

I know that chances are also great that these experiences ring true with you, too (perhaps minus the bumblebee pants). Maybe you've shared a class or conservation workshop, a workout or hike, a beer, or a parenting anecdote. I know you've shared a laugh. I know these things because Renee shows up for people.

And now we have a chance to show up for her.

In May of 2022, Renee noticed a growing lymph node in her groin that was not tender but hard and smooth - not a good sign. After ALL THE IMAGING, tests, and exams, they could not find the organ of origin for this squamous cell cancer. Her official diagnosis is cancer of unknown primary. It's good that she doesn't have an organ that is currently being taken over by a metastasizing tumor, but it also requires six weeks of chemo and radiation simultaneously.

Every day during the work week, she must go to radiation, regardless of how she is feeling. Once a week she spends 5+ hours at her chemo appointment, waiting for the IV to administer cisplatin. There are waves (and a few whole days) of nausea and fatigue throughout the week, and these symptoms will accumulate over the course of the six-week treatment.

There are also helpers. A wonderful (and delicious!) Meal Train has been established, but the medical bills persist.

What does she need help with?

If you have faced any medical issue beyond a yearly check-up, you know that insurance runs out quickly and any "extras" (even for cancer screening) are expensive. First, there is the unpaid missed time from work (her sick leave and annual leave ran out quickly; she's taking FMLA on the days when she is too sick to work). Then, there are the medical bills: all of the initial scans and tests to find the original cancer site, and the cost of future imaging that she will receive in perpetuity to ensure it doesn't come back.

She has her family to help - Maya graduated from UNC in May and now lives in Atlanta, providing constant support through calls and snaps. Colter is a Junior at Asheville High and is a sweet teenager (that may seem like an oxymoron, but it's true!). Her mom lives across town and is ready to provide rides and help support Colter. Her sister Sara spreads love with messages and pictures of her family, including twin boys!

But the anxiety of medical bills and missed work is pervasive. I want to help relieve that anxiety. And I'm hoping that you are in a position to help, too. ANY amount is beneficial, and don't worry - an encouraging word also means the world to Renee.

Whew, if you made it this far down, thank you for reading this. All warm thoughts, prayers, good vibes, smiles, and hugs are greatly appreciated!!