Help Jessica Fight Colorectal Cancer & Stay Strong

Hi, my name is Jessica, and I never imagined I’d be here, asking for help. But life has a way of throwing us into storms we never saw coming.

On February 20, 2025, I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and in an instant, my world changed. I had just started a new job, still in training, filled with excitement and hope for a fresh start. Then, everything shifted. Instead of focusing on learning and growing in my new career, I found myself drowning in doctor’s appointments, scans, and an overwhelming wave of uncertainty.

Now, I’m facing the biggest fight of my life—one that includes chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation five days a week for six weeks. In addition to daily radiation, I will receive chemo infusions during the first and last week of my treatment. Each day brings new challenges: physical pain, emotional exhaustion, and the overwhelming burden of financial stress.

Why I’m Fighting So Hard

Through all of this, what keeps me going is my daughter, Jewel. She is my heart, my greatest joy, and my reason for pushing forward every single day. I want to see her grow into the incredible person I know she is meant to be. I want to be there for her milestones, to cheer her on, and to create a lifetime of beautiful memories.

I also find strength in my dog, Stella, whose unconditional love brightens my darkest days, and in the beauty of nature, which brings me moments of peace and clarity. Most importantly, I fight with God by my side—a constant source of strength, guidance, and hope that helps me carry on even in the most challenging moments.

The Reality of This Battle

No one prepares you for the hidden costs of cancer. Insurance helps, but the expenses add up quickly. Here’s what I’m facing so far:

• Proton therapy deductible: $7,000

• Port surgery: $1,200

• Chemotherapy: Infusions in the first and last week of treatment (cost still unknown)

• Radiation travel expenses: My daily treatments are 38 miles each way to the Thompson Proton Center, meaning I’ll be driving 76 miles a day, five days a week for six weeks—just to receive the care I need. At an average gas price of $3.13 per gallon, that adds up to $285.46 in fuel costs alone.

• Impact on my family: My parents, who are elderly and on disability, are doing everything they can to help, but this journey is taking a toll on them as well.

• Medical supplies to help with treatment:

• Sitz bath (to help with comfort and hygiene): $38

• Cooling wipes (to ease discomfort and prevent skin irritation): $20

• Bidet (for hygiene during radiation treatment): $30

• Aquaphor with lidocaine (for soothing skin irritation): $12 - $20

• Disposable under pads for bed (for comfort and protection during treatment): $40

I have always been independent, someone who prided herself on handling whatever life threw my way. But cancer is different. Cancer humbles you. It forces you to accept that, sometimes, you need to lean on the people—and the faith—around you.

How You Can Help

I know times are tough for everyone, and asking for help isn’t easy. But if you are able, any contribution—big or small—will make a difference in my fight. Donations will go toward:

• Medical bills and treatment costs

• Travel expenses for daily radiation treatments

• Support for my parents, who are helping me through this journey

• Necessary medical supplies and comfort items for treatment

Even if you can’t donate, simply sharing this fundraiser means the world to me.

Holding Onto Faith & Hope

This is the hardest thing I’ve ever faced, but I refuse to let it define me. I am still Jessica—a mother, an animal lover, a nature enthusiast, and someone who fights every day with God by my side. My faith keeps me grounded, and it gives me the strength to keep fighting for a future filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities with my daughter, Jewel.

I may have cancer, but cancer does not have me.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your love, support, and prayers.

With all my gratitude,

Jessica