Let's support Jennifer

As I got older, this was always in the back of my mind... genetically, I had a 50/50 chance of developing the cancer that took my mom in 2006 at age 52.

As I sit here at age 41, with my belly attacked by the same genetic invader, I'm saddened that my mom died so young. I wonder if she felt the same nasea I feel, the fear, the random constant pain, and the helplessness.

My mom taught my sister and I to be fiercely independent, but sometimes, that's not always good. I struggle when I don't necessarily have to, just to be able to say "I did this on my own and I didn't need help."

But, you guys... I need help.

Rent and bills are coming due and I haven't worked since July 3rd. I'm heading down to Arizona for specialized treatment. Avienda begins high school in a little over a month and I don't know what I'm going to do to get her prepared with clothes and school supplies. She's been through so much in her young life, and I want her to at least not have to worry about being ready for school.

This is really difficult for me to ask, but I realize I have a strong support system and folks want to help. Maybe just a few dollars is all you can do, and that's OK. Everything helps right now.

I appreciate you all so much and count myself incredibly lucky to be supported by such a wide range of kind people. I don't know how to pay you back, except by continuing to fight for my life and be as good a friend to you as you have all been to me.