My name is Jessica Collom, and I’m reaching out for support for myself and my father, NC Thurman, during an incredibly difficult time. In September, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and in November, I underwent a double mastectomy. Since then, I’ve been unable to work and do not have short-term disability, which has made the past few months especially challenging. To make matters more difficult, my boyfriend was also affected by the recent government shutdown, adding to our financial strain.

Just three weeks after my surgery, my father, NC Thurman, fell in his home and needed immediate care. I stayed with him in the hospital for over a week to help him recover, and now he’s in a rehabilitation facility working hard to regain his strength so he can return home. On top of this, my boyfriend had to leave TN for a family emergency on NYE. Our family has had to travel back and forth between Florida and Tennessee to care for our loved ones, and the expenses have quickly become more than we can bear alone.

The funds raised will go directly toward travel expenses, medical bills, and daily living costs for myself, my father, and our family. This was the last thing I wanted to do, but I can’t get help if I don’t ask. The outreach of love and prayers we’ve received during this time has been such an uplifting blessing during such a hard time in our lives. We thank anyone who is willing to help support our family through this hardship.