Help Gigi Fix Her Brain - Update!

Hello, all! Last summer, we started this fundraiser to help raise funds for our dear friend Gigi (née Gina) Giusto after the discovery of a grade 4 glioblastoma tumor on her brain. This particular type of cancer is incredibly aggressive and requires an equally-aggressive combination of brain surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Gigi has put in a heroic effort to tackle this challenge. She has faced her glioblastoma diagnosis and treatment with her trademark humor, grit, and spirit. Gig has her low moments, but overall she's an example of how we should face life's curveballs.

When Gigi had a major seizure and received her diagnosis, she was between jobs, having just completed years of dedicated service at University of the Arts and just about to start a dream job at a Philadelphia television affiliate. As you can imagine, the timing could not have been worse. Thanks to the generosity of so many of you, she has been able to comfortably live while she undergoes her many treatments. The good news: she has been having clear MRIs with no sign of the glioblastoma returning. The bad news: the treatment continues and a recent seizure means that she cannot drive or go back to work anytime soon.

SO, we're back asking for your continued generosity. Gigi estimates that she will need an additional $23,000 to be able to keep eating, buying wigs, and have a place to lay her at-times bald head. You've been so kind to Gigi and I'd certainly appreciate you extending your kindness.

Thanks so much,

Jacques

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From Sara:

I want to take a moment to tell you about my friend, Gigi. On August 21, 2022 Gigi had a seizure in her home and was rushed to Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where doctors realized she had an aggressive grade 4 glioblastoma. She underwent an emergency craniotomy to remove the tumor. Looking ahead, she will be combating the cancer with an equally aggressive treatment plan that includes chemotherapy, radiation and clinical trials.

Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting Gigi knows what a presence, joy, and light she carries with her. She loves with her whole being and celebrates all of life's moments in hopes of sharing her joy and happiness with you. She also lives her life and career helping other people. Gigi was so excited as she was about to embark on her new career at CBS News Philly the day she went into the unexpected surgery, but is now currently not able to work and is accruing medical bills for the foreseeable future.

Gigi said it best herself, “this treatment and time will be hard, but we’ve seen me do hard and I have kicked ass at it.” Please give what you can to help her kick ass!

I am asking for financial support for Gigi, anything you can share will help Gigi and allow her to focus her energy on healing.

If you can’t give, a share of this post would go a long way to help spread the word.

With Love & Gratitude,

Sara