Give now to cover JC’s surgery, treatment, travel and living costs
Hi everyone, as one of JC and Annie's best friends, I am saddened to share that the two of them and their little boys (ages 3yo and 6 months) need our help.
On December 6th, JC woke up with what he thought was a bad migraine, which developed into concerning neurological symptoms, and was quickly brought into the hospital shortly afterward. MRI and CT imaging revealed a golfball-sized brain tumor. His care was transferred to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, where he is scheduled to undergo brain surgery on December 30th.
Based on current imaging, doctors believe the tumor to be a grade 3 or 4 glioma - making both chemotherapy and radiation a likely part of the treatment plan. While the exact diagnosis and prognosis of the tumor type won't be known until after surgery, it's clear that our friends have a long road of uncertainty in the months ahead. Depending on what the biopsy shows, they will have countless repeated and ongoing extended stays in Rochester for treatment and recovery.
JC is a self-employed tattoo artist with no paid sick leave or time off, and will be unable to work during recovery and treatment. Annie, a public special education teacher will also need to step away from work to be JC's primary caregiver. In addition to their lost wages, they will experience a gap in health insurance coverage later in the year due to Annie's teaching contract.
Managing all of this while caring for two very young children is more than one family should have to carry alone.
This fundraiser will help provide stability during an incredibly difficult time, including support for:
- Lost income for both JC and Annie
- Medical and recovery-related expenses
- Gaps in health insurance coverage
- Gas, lodging, and food while in Rochester
- Basic home and living costs for their family
JC and Annie are taking things one day at a time and are committed to being as open and transparent as possible as they move forward.
If you’re able to donate, it would mean so much. If you’re unable to give financially, sharing this page is a huge help. Prayers, messages, check-ins, encouragement, and good vibes are deeply appreciated.
Thank you for being part of their community, showing up, and for supporting them in whatever way you can.
With love,
Kellyanne on behalf of Annie and JC Stroebel