Our dear friend Jessica Karuhanga has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer, and we are coming together to support her through this difficult chapter.

Jessica lives with a genetic condition called Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), which affects about 1 in 3,000 people. In a small number of cases, people with NF1 develop internal tumors, and in even rarer cases those tumors become cancerous.

Jessica’s tumor has transformed into a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) — one of the rarest and most aggressive sarcomas. Many people with MPNST also have NF1, and for them the road is often longer and more uncertain, with tumors that can return even after treatment. It is a frightening and heavy diagnosis to carry.

Despite this, Jessica continues to meet the world with creativity, care, humour and honesty — qualities that have long defined both her life and her work as a multi-disciplinary artist.

We are asking for support to help ease the financial burden of Jessica’s treatment and recovery. Funds raised will go toward medical expenses not covered by insurance, ongoing treatment and supportive care, and the everyday costs that become heavier during long-term illness — things like rent support, groceries, transportation, and creating the time and space Jessica needs to rest, heal, and focus on her health.

Jessica has given so much — to her peers, to students, to collaborators, and to the cultural life of this city and beyond. Now, we have the opportunity to give back by helping ensure she can move through this period with dignity, stability, and care.

Please consider donating if you are able, and sharing this fundraiser widely. Many people across many chapters of life know and love Jessica, and we know there are so many who will want to support her — even if you don’t know her personally.

Thank you for being part of the community that holds Jessica now. We deeply love and appreciate you for it.