HELP A HERO- by Michael Swope II
Request for $10 Support for Jay Francis – Please Read and Pass It On
Many of you know Jay Francis as a wonderful fun guy who proudly served his country (US Army Ranger) What most of you don’t know is the challenge that the Francis family now face, these issues will put all of Jay’s training to the ultimate test.
Jay served 8 years in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division out of Fort Hood. He holds the rank of Staff Sargent and is currently on in-active reserve status. Jay did 2 tours in Iraq where in addition to other commendations he received a Purple Heart. Following his 2nd tour, Jay moved to Dallas and over the course of the last 2 years, has become not only my best friend & part of my family, but Austin’s (my special needs little brother) larger than life caregiver. Jay and fiancé, Janet, have a son, Jaycob, 21 months and a baby girl due in March. Always the over achiever Jay has continued to pursue his college education and is about a semester away from finishing a Chemical Engineering Degree.
Within the last 2 months Jay has been diagnosed with Stage 2 Melanoma as a result of his service in Iraq, fighting for our freedom. While awaiting test results Jay developed flu like symptoms, following more tests the doctors discovered Jay had developed Type 2 Diabetes & hypertension which complicates how the cancer is treated. Thankfully, the VA sent Jay to the experts at UT Southwestern who have begun treating the cancer with immunotherapy which uses the body’s immune system to reject the cancer. This treatment will reduce the number of cancerous spots that will have to be surgically removed. The doctor’s were pleased with the immunotherapy results following the first week of treatment, however, this treatment makes it difficult to control the diabetes. Depending on how Jay’s body responds, the plan is to continue the immunotherapy for another month.
We are so excited that the immunotherapy is working; however, the result has left Jay extremely weak, unable to work and provide for his family which for this proud Ranger is worse than being shot in Iraq.
As Jay’s “Texas” family, my parents and I have struggled with "what can we do to help?” We thought we would ask our family, friends and strangers to show support for this humble hero and the hardship he is now enduring from his selfless sacrifice protecting our freedom by donating just $10 to support the Francis family. If you can not support financially then a card or note of support would be a gift in itself in their time of need. Please send cards to Jay Francis c/o Michael Swope, 11064 Delford Circle, Dallas, TX 75228. To receive updates on Jay’s progress, please send your email address to 375Ranger101st@gmail.com.
With your help we can show the Francis family the support and gratitude we have for our Hero. Donations should be sent to:
John J Francis
c/o Bank of Texas
6215 Hillcrest Ave.
Dallas, TX 75205
There is so much to be thankful for; the cancer was found early and Jay is receiving treatment from one of the best hospitals in the country. The VA will cover 60% of the expenses for Jay’s treatment and is reviewing the case for disability support. Your prayers and $10 gift will greatly help this American Hero fight this new enemy.
Thank you for reading this and passing it on, and God Bless.
