Help Emily and Jason Through This Tough Time

One year after losing her husband to cancer, my daughter, Emily, is facing yet another horrendous diagnosis.

Emily’s son, Jason, who turned 16 just three weeks ago, has been diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma. This malignant cancer has taken up residence in Jason’s spinal cord, entwined in bone and nerves. Because of nerve involvement and pain, Jason is unable to walk and is confined to a bed. With pain management and physical therapy, the plan is to allow him to use crutches and/or a wheelchair while he continues treatment.

Jason is receiving chemo and radiation therapies and is currently hospitalized at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, TN, about 2.5 hours away from their home. Surgery is not an option due to the location of the tumor.

Jason is a bright teen with a keen sense of humor who loves to play chess. He began 10th grade in August but was only able to attend school for a week as his complications became apparent. His schooling has been put on hold until he is stable and able to participate in a Homebound program. As most 16-year-olds, Jason has his learner's permit and looked forward to getting his driver's license this year. He plays the French horn and participates in Concert, Jazz, and Marching Bands. All of this came to a screeching halt when he developed a pain in his leg. His life has now been altered. Typical rites of passage have been stolen.

Emily has been working to support herself and her three young sons since their dad’s death a year ago, but has not worked long enough to collect benefits through FMLA time off.

Any monetary donations would be used for travel, utilities, medications, and expenses for Jason that are already surfacing daily while navigating this nightmare.

This is incredibly difficult for Emily and Jason’s two brothers to absorb. Watching this life that they love change directions in such a devastating way is so painful.

We are in constant prayer and have the support of many.

Jason’s medical team at Vanderbilt is providing excellent care in many specialties to treat him. They offer hope and positive outcomes with his treatment plan. We are humbled and indebted for their presence and dedication.

If you feel you can make a donation to help Emily and Jason, we thank you for your compassion and kindness. We are also in much need of prayer for healing and strength as we go forward and are grateful for those prayers.

Thank you and God Bless

Martha Mucciarone