Kids & Family

Help My Mom As She Recovers From Breast Cancer, NJ Resident Pleads

When you can't work, the bills pile up. Even if it's because you're recovering from breast cancer, an Essex County resident says.

An East Orange resident launched a GoFundMe campaign on behalf of her mother, who recently underwent breast cancer surgery and is going through chemotherapy treatments.
An East Orange resident launched a GoFundMe campaign on behalf of her mother, who recently underwent breast cancer surgery and is going through chemotherapy treatments. (Photo courtesy of Khairah Jennings)

EAST ORANGE, NJ — When you can't work, the bills pile up. Even if it’s because you’re recovering from breast cancer, a New Jersey family says.

Earlier this month, an East Orange resident launched a GoFundMe campaign on behalf of her mother, who recently underwent breast cancer surgery and is going through chemotherapy treatments.

In the online fundraiser – which can be seen here – Deanna McGhee explains more about the financial challenges that her mother, Khairah Jennings, faces due to her illness:

Find out what's happening in West Orangefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

“Hi, my name is Deanna, and I have created this fundraiser on behalf of my mother, Khairah. Earlier this year, it was learned that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and would have to undergo surgery as well as chemotherapy treatments. Khai's surgery was successful, and she has recently started treatment which has caused her to miss work. Despite having to miss work, bills and other monthly expenses have begun to accumulate, and it would be greatly appreciated if anyone would be willing to help cover these costs. Thank you.”

The fundraiser is seeking to raise $2,500. Make a donation here.

The pair aren’t the only New Jersey family who has turned to crowdfunding to help pay for crucial health care. According to GoFundMe, it hosts more than 250,000 medical campaigns every year. Those fundraisers take in more than $650 million in donations.

Find out what's happening in West Orangefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

In New Jersey, people seeking help for medical bills on GoFundMe included teachers, police officers and decorated military veterans. Many have found themselves in need of financial help despite having health insurance, they say.

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