Help with Jake's Treatment

Jenne Mocko is a teacher in the Morris School District. Her 17-year-old son, Jake, has been diagnosed with Grade IV astrocytoma, a rare, central nervous system cancer.  Jenne is a Preschool Intervention and Referral Team member and has dedicated her career to helping children with special needs and now she needs your help. 

Jake is currently undergoing radiation therapy, something this type of cancer usually does not respond well to. When radiation is complete, it is recommended he participate in clinical trials in Washington. The situation is ever-changing and we want to help in any way to alleviate any stress and any out-of-pocket expenses that will ultimately come of this. This situation is urgent and I am asking you all to spread the word and help in any way you can.

A few months ago, Jake, started feeling pain in his lower back. Over-the-counter pain meds and physical therapy did not relieve him of the constant pain. They were told they call a neurologist, who after hearing of his symptoms, immediately recommended he get an MRI. To their shock, a very large tumor was discovered in his spine. They were told it was benign, but surgery for removal was scheduled right away. They removed most of the mass, but pieces wrapped around his spinal cord were unreachable. Jake was left with no mobility in his legs and arms and was left with a loss of feeling in his mid-section.

While they focused on helping him learn to walk and move his arms again, they were blindsided with the diagnosis of an aggressive and rare form of cancer. The family is devastated. Jake is a sweet, humble, and loving child who does not deserve to suffer through this. To aggravate matters, the rehabilitation center he is currently staying in has recommended he move back home on 8/17. He is wheelchair-bound and the home is not set up for his care. A wheelchair ramp must be installed, his bed must be moved into the dining room on the first floor, the first-floor bathroom will need to be configured to somehow fit a wheelchair, and the list is growing. Please help!

Thank you!