Jess' fight with a rare cancer

25 years old with cancer. That's not something I thought I would ever have to say. I am a fiercely independent person and have tried to do this on my own. The decision to ask for help and support has not come lightly - but I can no longer do this alone.

I am a paramedic who uprooted her life to rural Victoria (Australia) to serve the community where it is needed most. My passion for this job has also taken me part-way through a self-funded masters of Intensive Care Paramedic. Despite my love for this job, I have had to move back home to the city for treatment, and temporarily cease my on-road paramedic career, as well as my studies, to prioritise my cancer journey.

In late March this year, I received the devastating news that a 17x10cm tumor had been found in body. This was then shortly diagnosed as a very rare cancer, called myxoid liposarcoma - which forms less than 0.08% of all cancers. Whilst I have tried to keep my chin up, unfortunately it is getting harder each day. This diagnosis has completely shocked my family and I. I am so privileged to have a strong support system from my family, colleagues and friends, however slowly the emotional and financial strain has become overwhelming.

We were initially hopeful that Medicare would cover my journey, however this is not the case - despite having private health, none of it is covered. While my radiation therapy is largely covered by medicare, unfortunately the surgery itself has very little financial support and involves multiple highly specialised surgical teams from different fields. The specific chemotherapy that has been recommended for my treatment is not yet covered by the PBS (not government supported), and will require full out-of-pocket costs. This will be in addition to the costs of rehabilitation for my arm. In addition to these costs, continued everyday costs including mortgage, bills, fuel for appointments, and my car finance are still required. I do not have income protection.

They tell you to have emergency funds, but what do you do when your funds aren't enough for your emergency? With the current state of the world, I know a lot of people are financially struggling to keep up with their own day-to-day, however every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a difference in my journey toward healing. Your generosity will not only ease the financial strain but also serve as a source of strength and encouragement during this challenging time.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and every one of you for taking the time to read my story and for considering supporting me on this journey. Your kindness and compassion mean more to me than words can express, and I am eternally grateful for your love and support.

With Love,

Jess