Jen Buda is one of those people who always shows up — for her students, her clients, her community, and her friends. She juggles multiple jobs with grace and heart. By day, she works in a special education classroom, supporting students as they grow, learn, and become more independent. She works privately caring for others and on weekends. She also brings joy and confidence to others through her hair and beauty services, helping people look and feel their best. Jen is always the first to offer a helping hand, take on an extra task, or show up where she’s needed — without ever asking for anything in return.

Now, Jen needs our help. In 2023, after having a lumpectomy 8 years earlier, Jen was diagnosed with breast cancer. She went through multiple surgeries and endured grueling treatments, traveling to Boston monthly to give herself the best chance at recovery. After months of pain, exhaustion, and strength beyond measure — she made it to remission. But this summer, Jen found another lump — this time in the opposite breast. Despite hoping for the best, she received the devastating news: her cancer has returned. Her treatment plan is still unfolding, but one thing is already clear — this fight will be financially draining. With frequent travel for medical care, missed workdays, and procedures ahead, Jen is rapidly losing her paid time off. Her work as a hairdresser provides no PTO, so every missed appointment is lost income. She is working to fulfill her personal obligations as well as added never ending medical bills.

Jen is doing her best to maintain her routine, but the truth is: the cost of fighting cancer is heavy, and no one should have to carry it alone — especially someone who’s spent her life lifting others up. We’re raising funds to help Jen cover medical bills and treatments, travel expenses to and from Boston, lost income from missed work, and everyday living expenses while she heals. Jen has been fighting quietly, without asking for much — but we believe she deserves support, love, and financial relief as she faces this next chapter. If you can, please donate. If you can't, please share her story. Let’s show Jen the same kindness she’s shown so many of us.