"People always say the bad things in life will never happen to me. That you are invincible, young and strong. That leaders never show weakness but without yourself you'll never be able to help those you've prepared your entire life to help. Never in a million years would I have expected my senior year of college at, The Citadel to begin like it did. Earning the rank of 2nd BN Commander, and top 9 was one of the most prestigious moments of my life. Sadly, after a few days back on campus starting my senior year I noticed I became more and more Ill. I headed home and with a heavy heart and disbelief was diagnosed with Cancer flipping my whole world upside down. With the extreme support of my friends and family I began chemotherapy yesterday and will kick cancer's butt. I am very thankful for all the opportunities in my life and thankful for all the people willing to sacrifice so much for me in my time of need. I love you all and still pray for your continued support. Thank you" From Jesse Ray Nardone's Facebook page August 21, 2016
Fighting cancer takes the support of family and friends. The Nardone family needs the financial support of their family and friends to help Jesse fight this battle with germ cell cancer over the next several months.
Due to Jesse's diagnosis he is on medical leave from his Army ROTC contract and will not receive the monthly stipend that contract provides. He relied on that stipend to meet his monthly car payment.
The treatments he will receive over the course of the next several months requires a 7 day hotel stay each month near the medical facility. This will require Jesse and his mother, Ann Marie, to stay in a hotel once a month for at least the next 4 months.
The money raised will go to help with the hotel and related travel expenses like food and gas, as well as the monthly expense of Jesse's car payment since he does not have any income while on medical leave. The estimated expenses for the next 6 months are $10,000. The additional $10,000 over the initial goal will help pay the many expenses not covered by insurance. Jesse Ray's parents have to miss work without pay to make sure Jesse Ray gets to his appointments.
If you have access to free hotel stays with either Hilton or Holiday Inn through their frequent guest programs they can be helpful as well.
Thank you for your support of Jesse and his family at this difficult time. Together we can help Jesse kick cancer’s butt!