Monica’s Legacy- Ella Marie Jones

Who can best articulate a story than the one who lived it?

“In July 2015 during aggressive treatments for early stage BC I developed mild wheezing. In Sept 2015 the mild wheezing lead to a CT scan. At this time a tiny “something” was seen by the radiologist which lead to CT scans every 6 months. After two years of monitoring my lungs I now had small bilateral nodules. A few grew bigger to a size that could be safely biopsied. After a grueling lung surgery to remove a wedge of my lung with the largest nodule on it, it was confirmed my breast cancer had traveled to my lungs…most likely De Novo stage 4 from initial diagnosis. My soul was crushed. My thoughts immediately went to my beautiful daughter, Ella, who had just turned one.

A daughter I fought years to have…

The more I heard it was getting harder to breathe, for the first time since my breast cancer diagnosis I was scared, scared I would not see my daughter grow up.

I knew there was no cure for Metastatic breast cancer. I understood advanced breast cancer was terminal and I would be on some sort of treatment to extend my life until there were no more options. The life expectancy of Metastatic Breast Cancer is 24-36 months on average. Extremely difficult pill to swallow at 40 years old. Over 5 years out from when they first saw the lung nodules I feel I have defied the odds and have hope I’ll get more time with my daughter, family & friends. ❤️”

Monica Lee Jones

2/4/77 - 4/3/24

In truth, I’ve never met anyone like her. There was never a day that she didn’t inspire those around her. Never a day that she didnt wake up ready to face adversity with a dimpled smile.

She loved so fierce you could feel it in your soul. If she loved you, you knew, because she told you with a genuine heart. But her love for Matt and Ella…there are no words to describe it…it’s the kind of love that makes you take a step back, breathe deep, and smile.

Monica loved her life, her parents, Melissa and Matty.

And ohhhhh how she loved her STORY…

how her dreams exploded in the little town of Henniker, NH at New England College, and how it set the stage for the GREATEST love story with Jonesy

But her story isn’t over. Her story lies within her greatest gift, Elle Marie.

Please consider donating to this fundraiser to benefit Monica’s legacy, Ella Jones.

Maybe Ella will walk our beloved covered bridge one day after soccer or lacrosse practice…maybe she will forge a new path at a university of her choice.

One thing is for certain, wherever this kiddo ends up, she will continue to change world…just like her Momma.

Much love,

Tracey Banga