Help My Brother Jon Gilrain (Breen) Fight Cancer

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Help My Brother Jon Gilrain (Breen) Fight Cancer

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Help My Brother Jonathan Fight Cancer: Your Support Can Make the Difference

My brother Jonathan (also known as Jon Breen in his younger years) is one of the strongest, kindest people I know. He’s always been the type of person to show up for others, to lend a hand, and to put family and friends first. But right now, he’s facing the biggest battle of his life—and he needs our help.

Last year, Jonathan noticed a lump on his backside that was repeatedly misdiagnosed. For many months, we were told it was nothing serious. Then came the devastating news – it was sarcoma (a rare cancerous tumor). By the time doctors finally confirmed it, the tumor had grown to 7 inches.

Jonathan endured five weeks of grueling radiation treatments and later a surgery that left him with a 13” incision and significant loss of muscle tissue in his glutes. Persistent pain levels, mobility problems and other complications make working impossible in the foreseeable future.

Medically, we thought the worst might be behind him, except for a long recovery—but the cancer had metastasized and spread to his lungs. Jonathan is facing round two of the fight as he recovers from the surgery.

As if fighting for his life weren’t enough, his employer had to fill his job position after generously holding it for as long as possible. He has no safety net and is struggling to be self-sufficient.

Instead of being able to focus on healing, out of pocket medical expenses and the ongoing cost of living have forced him into the heartbreaking reality of dwindling funds. Jonathan has managed his resources as his fight has unfolded since January 2025. But now, without an income his train is running out of tracks. The financial burden has become overwhelming, but together, we can lift some of that weight.

This is where you can make a life-changing difference. No donation is too small. Every dollar will go directly toward supporting Jonathan while giving him the chance to continue his fight.

My brother deserves the chance to heal without the crushing fear of financial ruin. With your help, we can give him that chance—the chance to focus on treatment, to fight with dignity, and to look forward to brighter days.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.

With gratitude,
Carene Kratzel

Organizer

Carene Kratzel
Organizer
Fairfield, IA

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