In 2021, our family faced a heartbreaking diagnosis when Eddie Plake, one of Jennifer's sisters, was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, a form of breast cancer. This led both Jennifer and her other sister, Jessica, to undergo genetic testing for the BRCA2 gene mutation that Eddie carried. Jennifer tested positive, meaning she faced an 85% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.

Further testing revealed cysts in both breasts. At the time of that discovery, Jennifer was pregnant with her first daughter, and she knew delaying action could allow cancer to develop. In an incredibly brave decision, Jennifer chose to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy in 2024 at the age of 29. This surgery dramatically reduced her risk to about a 2% lifetime chance of developing the same cancer that had affected her sister.

Tragically, despite her proactive steps and the low remaining odds, our worst fears came true in 2026. Jennifer has now been diagnosed with Stage 1, Grade 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. The tumor had grown to the size of a large grape in the matter of a couple months, and imaging revealed a second, smaller mass nearby.

True to her warrior spirit, Jennifer is facing this head-on with fierce determination. She underwent a full battery of scans including an MRI, CT, bone scan, and lymphoscintigraphy to confirm the cancer had not spread (thankfully, all results were clear elsewhere in her body). In February 2026, surgeons successfully removed the masses along with several lymph nodes.

Given the tumor's aggressive grade, her BRCA2 mutation, and confirmation that the cancer is hormone-receptor positive, Jennifer's treatment plan includes 20 weeks of chemotherapy to minimize the risk of recurrence. this includes 12 weeks of Carboplatin + Paclitaxel (Carbo-Taxol) and then 8 weeks of Doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. Radiation remains a possibility afterward. Following treatment, she will need ongoing medications and monthly injections to suppress estrogen production in her ovaries for the next 5 to 10 years. these will induce early menopause and likely prevent future pregnancies given the timelines.

This journey is taking a heavy toll, physically, emotionally, and financially on Jennifer, her husband Tyler, and their two young children Vivian and Jason(ages 3½ and 10 months). Tyler and Jennifer will miss significant work for chemo sessions, potential additional surgeries, follow-up appointments, and recovery time. They'll also need support with childcare during these demanding periods.

The couple has already taken steps to cover initial costs, including selling their collections of Pokémon cards and other collectibles to pay surgery deductibles and doctor and hospital visit co pays, and the road ahead includes many more expenses. Any help would ease the burden so they can focus on Jennifer's healing and their family.

If you're able to contribute, we would be deeply grateful. Even if you can't donate, please share this page widely, it helps spread awareness and brings more support to Jennifer's courageous fight against this disease.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for any love, prayers, or assistance you can offer.