Hi everyone. For those who don't know me, my name is Kayla, Jen's daughter. I am writing this on behalf of my mom after our family received some life changing news. After days of GI discomfort and multiple tests, my mom was diagnosed with duodenal adenocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of small intestine cancer. Because of the aggressive nature of this type of cancer, she was scheduled for immediate surgical removal of the duodenum, gall bladder, and bile duct, and resection of the pancreas and stomach. This type of surgery is also known as a Whipple procedure.

A cancer diagnosis is nothing short of a whirlwind of emotions. Not only does cancer bring the burden of searching for strength and hope; but it also brings with it the burden of cost as someone fights for their life. Just the Whipple procedure itself is estimated to cost $190,000.

I am writing to you all in hopes to raise money to help offset costs that have started to accumulate from her initial hospitalization to future treatments including medications, chemotherapy, labs, imaging, any additional procedures, and not to mention the amount time off work she will be taking.

If you know my mom, you know that she is a force to be reckoned with. A light that is contagious, effortlessly touching those around her. She is the most selfless person I know, having an uncanny ability to make people feel seen and heard in the most special ways. It's my turn now to help take care of the one person I always seem to find taking care of others. I know she would never ask for help, which is why I feel compelled to reach out to her community and those that love her to help donate in any way they can. Every little bit makes an impact and our family is forever grateful. Please keep us in your prayers and thoughts as we begin this incredibly challenging journey. THANK YOU!