Stand By Jennifer
You never think you'll be the one with cancer.
At least I didn't.
Most of my life I've been the one giving to others in need. So much so that I neglected myself in the process and thought other people were more important. About 4 years ago I decided I needed to focus on me, and I got happy and healthier. I started to love my life even more. And then, a miracle, at age 46, I found my one true Love that I will spend the rest of my life with in joy.
Now, I'm the one faced with cancer.
In early June 2018, I was diagnosed with a Stage 3c metastatic Melanoma. It was a spot on my skin that I foolishly ignored for too long due to my fear of what would happen to my health. Of course, the fears came true. A surgeon took all of the spot in early June, and pathology determined it was a good idea to take a wider and deeper spot.
On June 22, I had outpatient surgery to remove a mass and one lymph node. While the doc was quietly optimistic about it, a week later, because of melanoma found in one lymph node they removed, the surgeon recommended that I see an Oncologist to start Immunotherapy. This news hit me the hardest of all, being the optimist that I am, and I'm not the one that's supposed to be sick.
The treatment plan is Immunotherapy for one year. It's a infusion of a drug once a month. The price of the one treatment would astound you, but it is covered by insurance. This drug will bring the chances of it reoccurring in my lifetime from 70% to 30%.
My work of over 20 years has always been to help others with their businesses and lives. To grow and to expand, to heal and bring in peace. Being an entrepreneur for most of my life has been a blessing, for which I give thanks daily. I absolutely love what I do and can't imagine doing anything else.
It also has its downside. Long, oddball hours. No set income. Little savings. No health insurance for many years. I'm lucky to have health insurance now, but the high deductible has always prevented me from using it. Until now.
As a self-employed person, it's devastating when you're out of work for just 2+ weeks from surgery and have much less time to work when you're going to doctor appointments while you sort out what's what in this new health diagnoses. Throw on top of it a big transition time for my business, a slow summer (which is typical), clearing out 2 houses getting ready to move to one of them with my love, and dealing with aging parents cleaning out their home as well. Most of my life is changing in big ways, and I wouldn't change it for a thing. (Except the melanoma.)
My medical bills are piling up. There has been angelic assistance from a few sources, but it's not covering everything. Without outside help, I may be forced to close my businesses.
The funds will be used to cover my deductibles and medical expenses not covered by insurance.
I am humbly asking for help from my dear friends and awesome community. I am blessed to know SO many outstanding people.
I would be deeply grateful beyond words if you could donate even a small amount to make my journey easier. To give me one less thing to think about so I can focus on my health and staying strong.
There is no doubt in my mind I'll be okay. I'm excited about my future and all the adventures and blessings it holds, and you can help make this filled with grace.
Feel free to message me with questions about the campaign or Melanoma.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!
Go #rockstarsforjenn
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A gentle suggestion for your health:
Stay out of the sun during peak times. Wear GOOD sunscreen. Cover up. Get your skin spots checked!! Your skin health is just as important as anything else
PLEASE SHARE this with your family, friends, networks!
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If you'd rather support the fundraiser through my businesses to purchase services or products, connect with me for the links.
Thank you!
