September 16, 2020

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We checked into Inova Loudoun, 10 days ago. It seems the staff (doctors, nurses, specialists) have been saying goodbye ever since.

They all know that Jen is loosing her fight with this aggressive and relentless carcinoma.

Dr. Sarma explained that Jen’s latest CT scans show her disease has “grown explosively.” In the short time since her last surgeries, the lesions have spread to her lungs, spine, hips, throughout her bones and soft tissue.

He believes it’s growing too fast for chemotherapy to make a difference. We did this last round in the hopes of a miracle.

When Jen was diagnosed three months ago, we were told to expect a couple of years before things got really bad. Now we are told Jen’s life will likely be measured in weeks, maybe months.

Jen’s strength has astonished her doctors and everyone who knows and loves her. She has fought with everything she has and now wants to rest. Jen is clear, she does not want another surgery, procedure, or heroic measure.

We both wished for more. More time with our friends. More time to spend with our family. Time to see and do more together. “Better days. Less pain. More fun.”

We still hold out hope that the last round of chemo (our Hail Mary) will do some good, but Jen’s comfort is now our priority.

23 Comments

  • Jen, since I received the horrible news, I’ve been staying on the sidelines, at a rare loss at what to do–helpless to help, unsure of what gesture you’d be willing to accept under the circumstances. You were always so coolly independent…you are the last person this should ever have happened to. Can there be any consolation in your knowing how many people you’ll leave behind the better for having known you and the sadder to miss you so soon?

  • Hearts are shattering. This isn’t right or fair. Praying for improvement in comfort levels. I love you Jen. ❤️💔

  • Our hearts are broken to hear this news. Jen you have always been part of our family and your friendship has given us so many fond memories. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. If you need anything at all please don’t hesitate to call us.
    May God keep you safe always.
    We love you!

  • Hi Jen,
    I just heard about your struggle with cancer from Carolina Lucci today, as she called me after she saw Stephen come into the restaurant. I have been working from home since March, so I have not seen you there for quite a while. I got an email from the Ohio Bobcat Alumni network recently, and thought of you, my fellow Bobcat friend. I hope you can enjoy some more good Italian food while you recover at home now. My prayers are for you and your family to have as much time together as you can, and I hope for a miraculous healing for you.
    Stay strong.
    Love,
    Colin Lowry
    OU Class of 1991.

  • Stephen, I am an old school friend of Jen’s and I just found out about her condition today. I have so many great memories of Jen – she always had the best slumber parties – and I always loved her Facebook updates whether it be the wine trips or puppy pics. I have read through every word in this blog and am overwhelmed. There really are no words. It is clear how much everyone (especially you) loves Jen. I can’t imagine how much pain you must be in. You are in my thoughts and prayers

  • Thoughts and prayers. Words elude me but know we are thinking and praying for you don’t give up on a miracle , they do happen. Love to you both♥️

  • I’ve been thinking of you lots, Jennifer, and I’m sorry for all the pain and struggle you’ve endured. I hope you find peace and comfort with your loved ones nearby. I’m keeping you in my heart and in my prayers. ❤

  • I just found out about Jen’s illness this morning. And I just finished reading the blog. I have no words. Sending love and energy to you all. My heart aches for you.

  • You have been in our thoughts and prayers everyday. Our hearts ache for you. We love you.

  • HOPEFULLY YOU AND STEPHEN ARE HOME BY NOW!
    I WISH YOU TO BE PAIN FREE SO YOU CAN ENJOY YOUR TIME
    TOGETHER WITH EACH OTHER AND YOUR FAMILY,
    I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR A MIRACLE OF HEALING!!
    LOVE YOU BOTH!!
    AUNT JOANNE AND UNCLE DENNY

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