Friends Support LI's 'Granola Lady' In Battle Against Brain Cancer

BABYLON, NY — A Babylon woman diagnosed with glioblastoma—a type of cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the brain or spinal cord—could use a little help from her community right now.

Less than a week ago, doctors diagnosed Jeanette Candido with a the grade 4 brain tumor—the most aggressive type—within days of symptoms surfacing, according to her family.

During an emergency surgery earlier this week, doctors removed about 20 percent of the tumor.

Jeanette is a mother of three, a manager at the Southampton Farmers Market, and a fixture at numerous other Long Island farmers markets known as "The Granola Lady" for her artisanal granola business, The Granola Plant.

Now, her children Adeline, Michael and Robbie, are raising money via GoFundMe for the heavy financial burdens associated with the diagnosis, like medical and recovery expenses. So far, friends, family members and community members who've never met Jeanette have raised over $32,000 of the $100,000 goal.

"The funds raised here will go to her medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, and quality of life care in coming months. We hope that you'll consider supporting her as she navigates this difficult season of her life," her daughter Adeline wrote on the fundraiser page.

In a post-surgery update, Adeline said that while the tumor caused Candido to lose some of her vision before surgery that can't be recovered, her mother's "mobility is different" but she is "doing super well otherwise."

"She is strong and ready to fight cancer as hard as she can. There is a long road ahead as we learn to navigate life as this new 'normal' for now," Adeline said. "Mom still has to figure out the next steps and undergo continued treatment in the upcoming weeks."

In the update, Jeanette's family shared words from their mother.

"We appreciate the overwhelming support. So many of you have been texting, calling, sending prayers and well wishes, and supporting our go fund me. I have no words to express how much the monetary support at this time helps ease the blow to my children and I as we figure this out," Jeanette said. "My heart is so full with all the love and I'm grateful for you all. We are blessed."

To learn more and help Jeanette, visit the GoFundMe.