Jodi and Jessica

Patti Godsey Walker is organizing this fundraiser.

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Jodi Shelton-Langley has always been a force to be reckoned with, and now is no different. In July 2011, diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia, and she was able to find a match for a stem-cell transplant in Europe when one couldn’t be found in the United States through a registry of stem cell and bone marrow donors. Following her remission, Jodi became an active volunteer for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society as well in addition to constantly giving her time and resources to help the needy and homeless in her Bonner Springs community and beyond. A month ago, Jodi learned her leukemia had returned, but almost miraculously, once again, she has found a match in Europe. Back in 2011, she was shocked to learn that there are only 144,000 people registered as donors in the US and now feels it is a life goal to bring recognition to this worthy cause.

Jodi's only daughter Jessica is 26. She has a fun-loving spirit and infectious smile, but behind that smile is a young woman who has gone through more challenges than most do in a lifetime. Jessica tragically and unexpectedly lost her father at age 16. Money was always tight but Jessica always worked hard in school and at part-time jobs to support herself. She put herself though college, usually simulaneously with a full-time job and then moved to Phoenix to attend Arizona Summit Law School. Recently graduating in May 2014, Jessica finally had her dreams within reach. She moved with her boyfriend Michael to Houston and took the Texas Bar, with high hopes of starting her Law career and beginning a whole new life. However, her world was again turned upside down when her mom's leukemia returned. Jessica changed her plans and returned to Kansas with little more than her car and a whole lot of debt to come care for Jodi in Kansas. As she did not take the Kansas bar, Jessica is not yet able to practice law to help support herself and Jodi. In addition, as they prepare for Jodi's stem cell transplant, getting the house ready is more than she bargained for- asbestos found in one of the rooms they are trying to prepare, is just the tip of the iceberg.

Jessica was too humble to ask for help herself, but the mounting medical bills, gas money, home repairs and living expenses are getting too overwhelming at a time that is already one of the most stressful of her life. Every little bit will help and be very much appreciated.

Although Jodi and Jessica are in need of support now, one thing you can count on is that Jodi and Jessica are people that will pay it forward, whether helping those in need, bringing recognition to blood cancer disorders/leukemia or being an inspiration to others. Please considering helping these deserving woman.