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Support Jodi's Cancer Battle and Help First-Gen Students

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I was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It was caught early so my prognosis is very good but it’s scary stuff, particularly after my brother’s death from cancer just over 2 years ago. As the shock wears off and my new reality sets in, I’ve been thinking about how I can bring joy into my life during treatment.

Normally at this time of year, I’d be gearing up to counsel 140+ families through the college financial aid process and provide pro bono support to local first-generation students who need extra help. Based on 2020 data from College Reality Check, approximately 89% of first-generation students, in particular those from low-income families, drop out of college. The figure is up to four times lower for second-generation students. Financial burdens and lack of support are believed to be the top two reasons why many first-generation students drop out.

Though I can’t conduct business as usual this year, I’d like to assist three first-generation students whom I worked closely with this past year that are overburdened by the costs associated with attending college, despite their best efforts and financial aid awards. These students captured my heart for their commitment to making their college dreams a reality and for their willingness to alter their plans to make it work. They demonstrated maturity beyond their years (which is common for this population as they are accustomed to advocating for themselves). The funds I raise will go to:

- Two students who changed their enrollment plans due to finances
- A college senior attending a public institution who works full-time while in-school but will still have significant debt post-graduation. I’d like to help him pay off some of his debt.

With six months of chemo followed by surgery, I have a long road ahead but I’ve never backed down from a fight and I don’t plan to start now. I hope you’ll be encouraged by my desire to focus on something positive and make a difference for others while I fight this disease. If you’re so inclined, please donate what you can - no amount is too small.

Thank you so much for reading this and please send good thoughts my way.

Take good care of yourself and be well,
Jodi
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    Jodi Conway
    Organizer
    West Barnstable, MA

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