" You are not alone"

On January 21st 2015 my best friend Jen's life was changed forever. What seemed like it could only be a nightmare was all too real as I sat in the ER with her and heard the words "he is gone." Her husband of 8 years had taken his own life, at the young age of 32, leaving behind Jen and their beautiful 4 year old son, Aiden. Jen is the kind of person we should all strive to be, kind hearted, strong willed, with a beautiful soul. Unfortunately, Jen's story doesn't stop there. As if this newly single mother didn't have enough to worry about financially, mentally, and physically, she discovered her own health was in jeopardy. Jen had a biopsy done after a routine check up found a nodule in her thyroid only to find out it is suspicious of papillary carcinoma (cancer). Lab work indicates that Jen has Hashimoto's auto immune disease, so we are hopeful that is the cause of the nodule rather then cancer. Jen will be having surgery on March 25th to remove the thyroid and have additional biopsies done to determine if it is in fact cancerous and check a few lymph nodes that are of concern. With all the Dr visits, tests, surgery and, expected time off work to recover, I know the expenses will be adding up quickly adding financial struggles to an already stressful time. So, I am asking that we all come together and show Jen & Aiden miracles really do happen, even in the midst of life's worst storms. We certainly cannot bring her husband back or take away these health concerns; but, If each of us can make a contribution, whether it be monetary, thoughts, prayer or simply sharing this story we will make their journey ahead a little easier. Anyone that knows Jen or Aiden, knows they deserve nothing but the best! I know it is not always easy to give up the money we all work so hard for, but I truly believe when you give, you get back double. The prognosis is very good when dealing with thyroid cancer and I know she WILL get through this to be stronger then ever. I am so very thankful for each and every one of you for joining me to get them over this bump in the road.
Thank you and God Bless!