Help a Family Stay Afloat During a Rare Cancer Battle (MPNST)

My sister, Jeanie Foss, is 38 years old. She's a loving mother of three, a devoted wife, and a special educator who spends her days supporting children with developmental disabilities. She is someone who has always poured herself into caring for others—and now she needs help.

After months of fatigue and unexplained weight loss, Jeanie began experiencing pain and a hard, uncomfortable sensation on the left side of her abdomen. She went to the doctor seeking answers and was immediately directed to the hospital for imaging. A CT scan revealed a large mass pressing against her spleen. From there, everything moved quickly.

Jeanie was referred to oncology for a tissue sample, which revealed a devastating diagnosis: Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor. MPNST is an extremely rare and aggressive cancer associated with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1)—a genetic condition Jeanie has lived with her entire life.

Her surgical team explained that she will need a major operation, which may involve removing her spleen, left kidney, part of her pancreas, and the left side of her colon. After that, there is a real possibility that she may also need radiation and/or chemotherapy.

Jeanie was sent home briefly to await a follow-up appointment. But just days later, she became dizzy, fell, and hit her head. Her husband Chris rushed her to the local emergency room, and she was transferred back to the hospital in Portland, where she has remained since. She has spent the past week battling a persistent fever, which has delayed her surgery and added another layer of uncertainty to an already frightening situation.

Although Jeanie qualifies for partial paid FMLA, her husband was denied coverage and must continue working as much as possible while also being the sole caretaker for their three children—managing school, meals, and daily life—on top of driving an hour and a half each way to and from the hospital whenever he can to be with Jeanie. All of this is unfolding just days before Christmas.

We are asking for help to support Jeanie and her family during this incredibly difficult time. Funds raised will go toward:

This diagnosis has turned their lives upside down overnight. Any amount—no matter how small—will help ease the financial burden so Jeanie and Chris can focus on what matters most: her treatment, her recovery, and their children.

If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser means more than you know. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.

PS. If you'd prefer, you can also send donations to Jeanie directly via Venmo (@JeanieFoss1246) or Cash App ($JeanieFoss).