Support Medical Expenses for Jess

It has taken a lot of time and consideration to come forward and share my story and ask for assistance in such a private, vulnerable, nerve-wracking situation. As much as I wish that I could handle my circumstances alone, I have also realized that I am surrounded by a community of people who are supportive and caring enough to want to help. I can only hope that I can contribute to others in similar situations during their time of need.

As many know, my family is no stranger to cancer. I lost my grandmother, Shirley Chugden to breast cancer after decades of battling, and I lost my mother, Kelli Michel, to ovarian cancer when I was 19. When they were still with us, both my mom and Shirley were tested for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and both learned that they were carriers of the BRCA1 gene. For the uninitiated, these genes mark a significant (up to 90%) risk of being diagnosed with breast and/or ovarian cancer by the age of 70. My mom had the preventative surgeries, knowing this, and still faced the same fate.

I have known of my risk, and have waited until this summer to be genetically tested for all cancer genes. I learned that I am BRCA1 positive in April. This means that I have a 46-85% chance of developing breast cancer, and a 40-92% chance of developing ovarian cancer in my lifetime. Given the nature of my mom’s journey and loss of life at 47, my doctors believe my risks may be even higher.

I have chosen to take the first step and have a preventative double mastectomy in February 2022. I do not want to take any more time than I need before making steps towards preventing my risk of cancer. Unfortunately, this comes with substantial medical expenses, that will inevitably meet my out of pocket max through my insurance. It is challenging for me to write this and ask for assistance, as I am a very private person and pride myself in my independence. However, I do not have the means to support this financial burden, and I do not want to continue to wait before scheduling the surgery, in fear that my risk may increase in the meantime.

I currently am cancer-free, and I hope to stay that way for the rest of my life. Any contributions would be incredibly meaningful and helpful in supporting my medical expenses and recovery. Of course, this is not to say that I do not already feel very loved and supported by my family and friends, and monetary contribution is in no way the only reflection of support that I receive. Thank you for listening to my story, and thank you for the love that you have shown my family and I throughout the years when Shirley and my mom fought their battles against breast and ovarian cancer. I am forever indebted to the kindness and outpouring of love from our family and friends.