The Cristerna family is asking for your help. My mom, Jo Lynn, has been battling intestinal cancer for 2 years now. Despite surgery and chemotherapy, her tumors have come back much more aggressively, what her medical team now believes to be terminal. For the past 3 months, she has required constant care as we do everything we can to address her new worsened symptoms and fight the cancer. We understand now her options are limited.

Jo Lynn started to suffer symptoms that rendered her unable to work early this year. My dad, Jim, has not been able to work during this period, and we are now facing significant financial strain. Any money donated will help with living expenses, bills, and any costs associated with my mom’s medical needs. My dad is Jo Lynn’s primary caregiver, a duty he has gladly and impressively taken on, but he is providing 24/7 skilled nursing care (managing her TPN IV, treating and cleaning her ileostomy, managing her medication, and staying in constant communication with her surgeon, oncologist, and palliative care doctors). He often times goes a full night without any sleep in order to be there for her. My dad’s efforts saves money on home health medical staff, but prevents him from earning an income.

For those that have been lucky enough to know Jo Lynn, they know just how caring and willing she is to help others. One of her greatest passions is caring for children, and she has dedicated her life to doing just that. She has opened her heart and her home to many children in need, helping to raise and nurture them as her own. Her maternal magnificence also led her to an extraordinary career as a teacher, where it was commonplace for former students to reach out to her years down the road to express their gratitude for the impact she had on them.

She is an incredible mother, grandmother, wife, sister, friend, and person. She is the glue that keeps our family together. It pains many to see her like this—crippled by this vicious and unrelenting cancer. Jo Lynn has spent her whole life caring for others. Now, we are asking for your help so our dad can continue providing her with the 24/7 care she needs.

Any donation amount will be greatly appreciated beyond what any words can be said here. We would also be beyond thankful if you could help spread this fundraiser to your network of friends, family, and peers, especially if they know Jo Lynn or Jim.

Please, help us reach our goal so we can continue to provide the care that Jo Lynn deserves.

With love and gratitude,

The Cristerna’s