Choriocarcinoma 3 months after giving birth

Early January 2023, Jess (29) was diagnosed with a rare, fast-growing cancer, Choriocarcinoma, just 12 weeks after giving birth to her third child. What should be a joyous time bonding with her newborn is now spent receiving specialised treatment 3 hours away from home.

At 6 weeks postpartum, Jess started to experience chest & back pain & severe breathlessness initially thought to be a pulmonary embolism. Jess's health continued to decline; 6 weeks later she was readmitted to the hospital & transferred to Auckland from Whāngarei where she was given her official diagnosis of Choriocarcinoma. This cancer originates from placental tissue left behind after birth, which spread from her uterus to her lungs and heart. Thankfully, this cancer is susceptible to chemotherapy.

https://www.webmd.com/cancer/what-is-choriocarcinoma

Jess is receiving chemo every fortnight to battle her cancer for 6 months or more. This treatment is causing a significant emotional & financial strain on her & her family. Any funds raised will be used to support her partner, Tyson & children Myles (2) & Kaiya (3 months) for transport, accommodation, childcare & other costs for living over the next few months. Jess has another daughter, Ava (11), supported by her Mum, who will also travel up from Palmerston North to support Jess.

With most family and friends living far from Auckland, we know Jess would appreciate having them around at this heartbreaking time. Any donations would be gratefully appreciated.