Life is Better than Good.: "Cancer Won't Happen to Me".

You hear it in the news, you see it on your Facebook feed, you hear stories at work or school, you see people "running or donating for a cause".....what am I talking about? Cancer. Ever thought, "cancer won't happen to me?" Cancer is real. And we know, cancer can happen to anyone. It affects millions of people every day. It's sickening. It's horrible. It's disgusting. It's disheartening. It's terrible. BUT it's not all powerful...only one man can claim that title.

I'm writing this because cancer has affected our family. Jordan (my cousins husband) was diagnosed with an astrocytoma (a tumor of the brain) in August 2008. He was 24. Since then, he has had a million checkups, received numerous rounds of chemotherapy and had brain surgery in 2013. The surgery was successful as the doctors were able to remove 80% of the tumor but left Jordan with some challenges. After rounds of more chemo, the tumor appeared to be gone. As we all know, cancer is nasty and unpredictable. Months later the cancer came back.

Ever met a hero? If you haven't, let me introduce you to two: Jessica and Jordan. They have both dealt with more in 6 years than many of us will deal with in a lifetime. They've dealt with ups and downs, hope taken and hope given back, tears, uncertainties, challenges, and obstacles. I cannot begin to describe the amount of strength these two have. Since Jordan was diagnosed he has continued to work, provide for his family and take care of little Emma in the process. Ever met Jordan? You would never know what he is going through. He remains positive and would never take a hand out from anyone. He is stronger than anyone I know. He is brave. He is courageous. He is tough. He is a FIGHTER. As for Jessica....courageous is an understatement and I know Jordan would attest to that. She has been there for him EVERY step of the way. Through the ups and downs she continues to be the rock. She works everyday, keeps up with Emma, is there for Jordan every step of the way and still maintains her superwoman mentality. I don't know how she does it. Honestly. I feel like I would break. I would be overwhelmed and ready to give up. Funny how God doesn't put us through anything that we cannot handle. I have no doubt that God chose these two because he knows their strength. Their marriage....I've seen nothing like it. They remain so in love and their support for one another is beyond inspiring. God has an enormous plan for them, I know it.

Jordan currently has an MRI every few weeks to check the tumor. He will start chemo soon, which could potentially affect his work schedule and ability to take care of Emma. As you can imagine, the bills are OUTRAGEOUS. Between medication, MRI's and his recent surgery....its tough. Could you REALLY imagine?

Our family is in constant prayer that God will provide like he always does. We DO have HOPE and we DO know that we serve an AWESOME God. We ask that if you can, please help with Jordan and Jessica's expenses. If you can't, please pray. Pray that Jordan and Jessica continue to be warriors, that God will take care of their family, that the tumor will disappear and never return and most importantly, keep them (and us) faithful that God has a plan. Thank you for reading their story and thank you for your love and constant support.

If you would like to support Jessica and Jordan financially, please follow the steps below:

1. Log-in to your PayPal account (if you don't have one, it's super easy to set-up)
2. Click "send money to a friend" at the top of the page
3. Type in Jessica's email: jessica.salyersbanks@gmail.com
4. Type in the amount you would like to donate
5. Click "next"
6. Review and confirm the information on the screen and click "send"

PayPal will send Jessica an email to let her know that you sent a donation. You have NO idea how much they will appreciate your generosity.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

With love,

Our Family