HELP JESSICA SAVAGE IN HER BATTLE AGAINST CANCER

Obituary

Jessie is a tenacious Spina Bifida survivor who is now facing final stages of ovarian cancer. Her battle began at birth when her spinal cord failed to develop properly. She was a fighter from day one, beating the odds as she underwent countless surgeries and developmental difficulties. For the last seven months she has endured stomach discomfort, inability to eat and rapid weight loss. She developed pressure wounds for which she was recently hospitalized. This led to the discovery of a cancer mass in her reproductive organs complicated by a hernia. The cancer is aggressive and moved quickly, causing the hernia to affect her esophagus and the shunt leading to her brain. Since the shunt, a result of spina bifida, has not been replaced since childhood, it is likely that mesothelioma is also a factor in the list of complications that Jessie is now experiencing. Her cognitive ability has been affected, causing difficulty in speaking. She has now been placed on Hospice care.

This amazing 39-year-old woman has faced this battle with a smile on her face and faith that would move a mountain. Despite her adversities, she embraced life and devoted herself to family, friends and her community. She spent many years working with children at the YMCA in Maryville where she provided before and after school care in addition to the summer childcare program. She was a memorable figure in the lives of many students and parents that she met through the program. Her love of St. Louis Blues hockey led to her dream job of Host at the Enterprise Center. Everyone knew her smiling face and sought her out for a high five and a “Go Blues” greeting as they made their way to their seats.

She is a member of Grace Church East Campus. She is involved in women’s ministry, which is her most recent “voluntold” adventure. She was a regular part of VBS as a leader of KidVid cinema, developing a message of hope in Jesus each night to an audience of children. She could be found lending a hand in children’s ministry check-in. She helped run computer graphics for some of the Sunday services.

The money donated will go towards medical costs and living expenses. There is no life insurance so donations will also go towards expenses when she gains her angel wings. Jessie has limited income and has been unable to work for some time. Any amount donated would be greatly appreciated by her family.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Your donations are helping to shoulder a huge burden not many people are ever prepared for.