The family you create…

Cancer changes you in visible and invisible ways, but if you’re Jess Jata, you gracefully and without a second thought turn your experience into action. Through multiple surgeries and treatment, Jess has cheered on her friends during their happiest occasions. She's shown up for weddings, baby showers and anniversary parties with a smile and infectious joy. She raises funds and spreads knowledge. She expresses the deepest compassion for others’ cancer journeys and lives her life with gratitude.

Jess is a good friend of mine and she recently shared with me that her beloved dog, Reese, required emergency surgery. Jess and her husband, Ben, poured all of their savings into Reese's comfort and care, but those savings were intended for growing their family. Cancer already took away the possibility of Jess and Ben carrying their own pregnancy, but they 've optimistically started the process of finding an egg donor and gestational carrier. This process doesn't come without its emotional and financial costs, so losing a good chunk of their savings is a tremendous setback.

If you’ve been touched by Jess’ story, please consider making even a small donation to help her and Ben rebuild their savings so they can one day create the family they've always wanted.