Help Jessica raise money

In September 2021, my entire life was twisted around and flipped upside down. I received a call while I was at work stating that my breast biopsy was positive. "You have cancer". These words have forever changed my life. 

While this diagnosis and the treatment that goes along with it has been complicated and scary, it has also come with some unexpected blessings. I have learned so much about myself and how strong I can be when I have no other options. I can relate to my patients better and provide more empathy for what others are going through. I have had the privilege of leaning on my family for unconditional love and support. And I have also been able to meet so many wonderful and incredible people along the way. 

412Thrive is an organization run by Samantha Moatz. This is a non-profit who provides support to local young women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and/or carry a genetic mutation that increases your risk for breast cancer. I was put in touch with this group pretty early on in my cancer journey and will alway be thankful for this group. It is terrifying being so young and given this diagnosis. I was told 1 week after Ellie's 1st birthday. This group could relate. We shared stories and experiences to get an idea of what to expect, how to cope  with the everyday chaos and have a safe outlet to just complain if needed. 

Sam took me out to breakfast at First Watch to get to know me and understand my story. She gave me a care package to help me be prepared for a mastectomy surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. This care package was perfect. It was so thoughtful and the items were so helpful in my recovery. 

I am now feeling pretty good and working on reclaiming my health. I ran my first marathon back in September 2023 with a goal of finishing. Now I am running a half (Pittsburgh is a little too hilly for me to complete a full at this time) with a goal of helping others. These packages from 412Thrive are several hundred dollars (I'm telling you, they are awesome)! In 2023, over 160 care packages were given. Please help support 412Thrive to be able to help others like me and make cancer a little less awful. Thank you so much in advance!