Support Jody’s Chemo Battle

Story

Hello, my name is Holly (Clark) Brackett, and I truly appreciate you taking a moment to read my story about my best friend Jody Hellen Deshais. Jody and I have been friends since the 5th grade…1972-73.

On December 23, 2024, I received a text message from Jody… “I had a bad mammogram.” That started a whirlwind of appointments for biopsies, ultrasounds, and numerous doctor appointments. On January 21, 2025, five biopsies in three areas. “It doesn’t look good.” One of the many things I love about Jody is our animated conversations, and she always sees the positive side. January 23, 2025, Jody sent me a text to let me know “It’s the most common kind of breast cancer.” January 27, 2025 text, “Lymphovascular invasion not seen.” February 11, 2025, “The cancer has not spread beyond the breast or the couple of lymph nodes, so that’s promising.”
Because of the latest health issue, and Jody has had many, she and Bill are facing financial challenges. According to one physician, Jody’s serious health scare in 2013 (in the hospital for 107 days) is likely a factor in the difficult issues she is now facing going through the chemo treatments. We are fundraising to help Jody and Bill with their financial challenges during this difficult time.
Two hospitalizations for issues after her chemo treatment, numerous trips for labs, testing, pre-op, and of course chemotherapy so far. Higher copays, high medical deductible, gas, tolls, OTC meds…it all adds up fast. Jody’s only income is through Medicare Disability. Jody (and Bill) are currently looking at out-of-pocket expenses that are equal to more than half of Jody’s yearly income! One chemo treatment…one is over 96,000! Times this amount by six. Moreover, it is not over…a couple more chemo treatments, rest for a month, surgery, rest for a month, radiation treatments daily (Monday through Friday) for weeks, then monthly chemo injections for the remainder of 2025.
Not only is this difficult financially, Jody has days that are physically and mentally exhausting as well. Chemo takes a lot out of you but even more so when your health is already compromised.
On that note, I am asking for your help. Any money donated will be used to pay medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses for prescriptions as well as OTC meds and supplies. Additionally, these donations will help with the cost of traveling to the numerous appointments. Gas and tolls can certainly add up.
Any amount you are willing to contribute is so greatly appreciated, and if you are not able to contribute at this time, a share with your friends and family would mean the world to us as well. Every donation helps…every share helps!

Thank you, and may God bless you.

Organizers :

HOLLY BRACKETT is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Jody Hellen.