Jen’s Journey...

Hi, my name is Ella Peterson and I am fundraising for my mom, Jen Peterson who is battling cancer for the 3rd time in her life. My mom means the world to me and is the strongest woman I’ve ever known. She retired in November of 2021 after almost 25 years of being a daycare provider. Before her diagnosis, she began a new chapter as a substitute teacher for our local school district. She enjoyed it when she would see old daycare kids in the classes she was substituting in. My mom has always been there for me whenever I needed her. It broke my heart to hear that she had to go through this again.

Hi, I'm Kim Schwartz and I'm helping Ella fundraise for my dear friend, Jen.

I first met Jen when our sons were in preschool. We both volunteered in the classroom and became fast friends, as did our boys.

I still remember when 4 year Brandon presented a picture board of his family to the class: the stick drawing portrayed Jen, his dad Zak (Jen’s high school sweetheart) and his angel brother. I was amazed to find out what Jen had already endured in her young life from battling Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in her early 20’s, not once but twice to losing their stillbirth son at 9 months. Soon after I met Jen, she became pregnant with their daughter, Ella who is now 16.

Jen’s story continues…

On January 10th I received the worst text ever: Jen was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She underwent a double mastectomy and reconstruction on Valentine's Day ❤️ (yes Valentine’s Day ) It was the first day available and Jen wanted the tumor out asap, so VD it was. The surgery went well and as planned and Jen is home now starting her long road of recovery. On February 22nd she will find out if she will need chemotherapy treatment.

They say “what does not kill us always makes us stronger”…and if that is the case I’d say Jen should be able to damn near move mountains! She continues to amaze me as she climbs this new mountain with dignity, grace and humor.

I’m hoping you will consider helping Jen and her family as she travels down this road again with Zak and now with their 2 children, Brandon (22) and Ella (16).

Please know that no gift is too small.

It will make such a difference in helping reduce the overwhelming medical bills so she can focus on not only surviving but to thrive and live a healthy, wonderful life again.

If you are not able to contribute at this time please send positive thoughts and prayers Jen’s way as well as a single act of kindness to a stranger that may be dealing with a similar life altering situation as Jen.

There is always hope beyond what you see…