Hello, I'm Meredith Jenkins, and I'm currently receiving outpatient Care at

MD Anderson Cancer Center. During a routine checkup on December 4, 2025, my primary care physician, Dr. Adil Asaddudin, asked whether I had a family history of colon cancer. Although my mother passed away from cancer in 1995, I was unsure of the specific type. After contacting my sister, I learned that it had been colon cancer. I had undergone a colonoscopy seven years earlier and was not due for another for three more years.

Therefore, in light of this new information, Dr. Asaddudin recommended that I have one sooner. I scheduled a consultation with Dr. Cole Thompson, who had performed my previous colonoscopy, and met with him on January 12, 2026. During a routine examination, he noticed a firm area on my left side. When he asked about it, I explained that I was aware of it but did not know what it was either, and he responded, "We need to find out." An MRI was ordered, which revealed a large mass on my left kidney. At my follow-up appointment, Dr. Thompson informed me that the mass was highly suspicious for cancer, which was later confirmed by biopsy. His initial recommendation was surgical removal of the kidney, and I was referred to Dr. Gregory Hester for evaluation. Because I have stage 3 renal disease, losing a kidney would be especially challenging. Further assessment revealed that the tumor's size (approximately 10 centimeters) and location made immediate surgery unsafe. I was then referred to an oncologist but chose to seek care at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

While I have been approved for treatment there, it is out of network for my insurance, which means I am personally responsible for the full cost of care. The team at M. D. Anderson has been exceptional in their expertise and compassion, but the financial burden is significant.

All funds raised through this effort will go directly toward covering my medical expenses. Any monies raised above my costs, will go directly to benefit other patients to lighten their financial burden as well. I am deeply grateful for any support you are able to provide.

In kindness,

Meredith Jenkins