My mother-in-law, Jennifer Hippensteel, and the rest of the family, received life-altering news recently. After fighting ear infections, swollen lymph nodes, and coughing up blood, she was taken to the ER. What followed were 15 days in the hospital that included tests, scans, and more, ending in a diagnosis of small cell lung cancer. Although it's hard to accept, this cancer is not curable. The mass has taken over 95% of her right lung and has spread to the center of her chest. This includes airways, blood vessels, as well as lymph nodes. Because of the extent of the mass, surgery is not possible.

Last week, Jennifer attempted to begin chemotherapy, which would include 4 days of treatment, followed by radiation, with a few days in between. After the first day of chemo treatment, she had a rare, extreme reaction. She became violently ill for days, so at this point, it is looking like chemo is not an option for her, which she has known in her heart all along.

After the long 15 days in the hospital for diagnosis and attempted treatment, she has decided to go home to her crystals, her Buddhas, and her own bed.

We are unsure of what the next few days, weeks, and months will bring, but we know that she is going to need help in many different ways, including financially. Although it is hard to ask sometimes for what we need, if you are able to contribute in any way, our entire family genuinely appreciates it.