Hello everyone,

We are writing this on behalf of Jenifer (Carmer) Back, someone we love deeply, because asking for help is not something that comes easily to her — even when she truly needs it.

Jen is the kind of person who shows up fully for the people she loves. She is a fierce advocate for her friends and family, always willing to listen, support, and help carry others through hard moments. But when it comes to herself, Jen struggles to ask for help. She has always been independent and far more comfortable being the supporter than the one being supported.

In July, 2018, Jen was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a lumpectomy followed by radiation to her right breast. Many people may not even know this, because Jen chose to keep that experience private. She has never been one to share personal struggles publicly or to worry others with bad news. Even then, it was difficult for her to talk about what she was going through.

On December 11, 2025, Jen received heartbreaking news — she was diagnosed with metastatic Stage IV hormone-positive breast cancer. The cancer has progressed aggressively, with tumors that have metastasized to her bones, nerves and other areas of her body. While her doctors have explained that it is treatable, it is not curable, and managing it requires extensive and ongoing care.

Right now, the most serious concerns are tumors located:

*On the right side of her face, dangerously close to her brain

*In two different areas of her spine, raising concerns for nerve and spinal cord involvement

*Additional lesions on her skull, right collarbone, right shoulder, and arm

Jen has begun palliative radiation treatment with the goal of slowing or shrinking the tumors that threaten her brain and spinal cord. These tumors have caused significant pain and discomfort. The tumor on her face has limited her ability to open her mouth, making eating and sleeping difficult. Her medical team is also concerned about bone involvement and weakening and she has been advised to be extremely careful with everyday movement.

Telling people about this diagnosis has been incredibly hard for Jen. Sharing bad news does not come naturally to her, and it took a great deal of courage for her to open up to her circle about how much this disease is impacting her life. She has always believed in positive thoughts and energy and she is making many intentional lifestyle changes to support her healing and fight this as naturally as possible, alongside medical care.

This time around, Jen has also taken the time to seek multiple medical opinions, something she did not feel she had the opportunity to do in 2018, when she felt pressured to begin treatment immediately after a small lump was discovered. She is approaching this journey thoughtfully, informed, and determined.

Beginning January 19, 2026 Jen will be traveling to Arizona for an intensive three-month treatment program, with hope of returning home in remission and with an improved quality of life.

Due to the seriousness of this diagnosis along with the pain, physical limitations, and demanding treatment schedule, Jen had to resign from her career at Mount Vernon Family Dentistry, a position she dedicated many years to and deeply cared about. The loss of her income, combined with medical, travel, and daily living expenses, has created a heavy financial burden — one she would never ask others to carry alone.

That is why we are asking on her behalf.

This diagnosis has brought significant emotional strain and uncertainty for Jen and her loved ones. Jen has a strong and loving support system of family and friends, and now we are asking for additional help so she can focus her energy where it belongs, on healing.

Any gifts received will help cover:

*Medical treatments and medications

*Travel expenses during her treatment in Arizona

*Daily living expenses while she is unable to work

If you are unable to donate, please know that sharing this page, sending a message, or keeping Jen and her family in your thoughts means just as much.

Please do not be afraid to reach out to Jen. While she doesn’t naturally bring the spotlight onto herself during difficult times, she is open and willing to talk about her journey if asked. Your support, kindness, and connection truly mean more than words can express.

Thank you for taking the time to read Jen’s story and for surrounding her with love and compassion during this fight.

We understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to offering support. If you are more comfortable giving outside of this website, personal gifts may be mailed or dropped off to Mount Vernon Family Dentistry, c/o “Jen’s Health Journey” 311 Virgil Avenue, Mount Vernon, IA 52314 or given directly at Bridge Bank.

Every thoughtful gesture, message, and kind word means more than we can express.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Jen’s Family & Loved Ones