Relief for KJ: Cancer Treatment Medical Debt

If you're reading this, you probably know me (though you might not know this story), and if you don't my name is Ese. I'm raising money on behalf of my girlfriend, Kjersten, whom I call "KJ." To me, she's my partner, but to others she's a best friend, a sister, a daughter, a confidant, a rock, a pillar, an inspiration, a co-worker, a comedian, a gabber, a foodie, a DIY queen, a giver, a fashionista, a helper and so much more.

Last year, KJ's life (and all of our lives who love her) changed forever when she went into the hospital for extreme stomach pain. After a four day visit, she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer at the incredibly young age of 30. The cancer had spread to her liver, which was the source of her pain. She couldn't eat, she could barely sleep or move until her treatment began.

Since then, she has completely changed her diet and her lifestyle. She takes medicine orally once a day, and goes in for scans and checkups once every couple of months.

All things considered, health wise she is fortunately now doing very well! The advances in modern medicine are shining, and her body is putting in work. Her doctors are happy with her progress. The tumors are continuing to shrink, and Kjersten has said she is feeling generally pretty good. Vastly better than she did even three months ago and remarkably better than she did upon diagnosis six months ago. To the unknowing, one might not even realize that she is fighting such a vicious battle physically, emotionally and mentally every single day. We [her community] are all so beyond grateful for her improving health and look forward to seeing that continue in the weeks, months, and years to come.

When she first shared her diagnosis, there was an outpouring of love and generosity from friends and family. Our community really stepped up in ways both big and small and have continued to be there for her, fully demonstrating the depth of the human heart, and the amazing support we both have around us.

We have both had everything we could ask for during these trying times. Unfortunately, what neither of us fully anticipated was the ongoing extent of medical fees. Between routine scans, injections, and the cost of her medicine, cancer treatment quickly wracks up tens of thousands of dollars. Anyone who has been through it, or seen loved ones go through it can attest to this. Kjersten has very good insurance thankfully, so a lot of that cost is offset. However, not all of it.

The other day, she called me while I was at work, overwhelmed and distraught by the bills she has begun to receive and apprehensive of the idea of asking for help. While I wish I was a more financially free kind of partner (one day!), I'm currently working three jobs. Neither of us makes a lot of money, and I'd prefer all her energy go towards fighting this disease.

So what I am asking for today is to tap into our communities and lean on loved ones (or complete strangers!) in a way that honestly makes both of us a bit uncomfortable. The amount I've set as the goal should cover all of her out-of-pocket costs for scans, injections, hospital visits and treatment for the next two years. Every little bit would go a long way.

From the bottom of both of our hearts, we are grateful for any and all donations, as well as the outpouring of love and support that continues to surround us on a daily basis.

I thank you, she thanks you, and every person that her beautiful life has touched, thanks you.