On Monday, March 11, Jes Varela's world was turned upside down. Diagnosed with extensive small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC), she learned that an 8.5 cm tumor was growing in her lower left lung, and the disease had spread to her pancreas, spleen, liver, and seven lymph nodes. The news was devastating, but Jes knew she had to fight—for herself and her three boys. Jes was given a prognosis of just 13 months, with a 20% survival rate beyond two years and only 2% beyond five for this rare and aggressive cancer.

Immediate chemotherapy and immunotherapy were necessary to prevent further spread. Jes began her treatment journey in March with the oncology team at Crown Princess Mary Cancer Center. Over the next three months, she endured the gruelling effects of aggressive chemotherapy, concurrent radiation therapy and ongoing immunotherapy. Despite the physical and emotional toll, her unwavering spirit remains a beacon of hope.

Jes has always been a pillar of strength and resilience. She’s faced many challenges in life, but none as daunting as this.

Jes’ journey reached a milestone in June when, after months of rigorous treatment, she was discharged from Norwest Private Hospital with no tumours or metastases in her body. She celebrated this victory with a joyful A new dance routine on life ❤️✨ video shared on Facebook. However, her fight is far from over.

Two months later, Jes continues to attend monthly maintenance immunotherapy and engages in regular exercise, an alkaline nutrition program and palliative care therapies to support her rehabilitation and support her overall health and wellbeing.

Unfortunately, her collapsed lung, post-radiation recovery and the side effects of immunotherapy have limited her ability to return to work.

As a sole parent of three boys, the financial strain is immense. The cost of ongoing medical and palliative care treatment, securing rental property for her and her three boys and increased living expenses is overwhelming, with very limited financial support through government benefits, Jes needs help to ensure her family’s future.

Jes is determined to give her boys the best years of their lives together, regardless of how long they may be. She wants to create lasting memories with them without compromising her care.

Jes’s story is one of incredible strength, resilience, and love. She’s touched the lives of many with her unwavering spirit, and now she needs your help. Please support Jes Varela by donating to her GoFundMe campaign. Your contributions will help cover the cost of her medical and palliative care treatments and living expenses for the next two years, ensuring she can continue to fight this battle and secure a future for her boys.

Let’s come together to support Jes in her journey. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. Thank you for your generosity and for helping Jes write the next chapter of her life with hope and strength.