Hi, My name is Jesse Buchner, 54 y/o and was diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer October 18th, 2024. After 5 weeks of Radiation and Chemotherapy, I was scheduled for Esophagectomy at Mayo in Rochester, MN, removing part of my lower esophagus and about half of my stomach. My surgery lasted more than 6 hours. Within a couple of days, I was retaining thick mucus in my lungs causing me to be on and off a ventilator for 8 days. I've been in an ICU room for 6 days and continue to have my lungs suctioned and fluids drained, but was recently removed from the ventilator, hopefully for the last time. In 2 more days, I should be able to be moved to a regular room. The goal is to be able to go home sometime next week.

I have been in the Chemical and Mental Health Field for more than 25 years and have a Masters in Social Work. I started a new job as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor on October 2nd, 2024, helping find jobs for adults with a documented disability and completing Vocational Rehabilitation Needs Assessments. Being new to this position with the State of Minnesota, I don't have vacation time accrued, but have been granted an unpaid Medical Leave.

Being on a leave and unable to work, I have been entirely responsible for my health insurance premiums, running about $2000/month and have recently run out of finances for my rent and day to day living.

If all goes well, when I am discharged, I will have at least 2 weeks of no driving and at least 6 weeks of no lifting a laundry basket.

I'm asking for funds to help with insurance, rent, daily expenses and soon, medical bills.

I sincerely appreciate any amount you are able to give.

With Deepest Gratitude

Jesse Buchner