Support the Mazzurco medical journey
Goal:
USD $8,000
Raised:
USD $5,000
Campaign funds will be received by Janet Mazzurco
Support the Mazzurco medical journey
Janet was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma cancer in 2014. Since it penetrated the brain barrier, twice, brain surgery was needed, and she was given a (no more than) 3-month life expectancy. Through the grace of God, modern medicine and a loving and devoted husband, Tony, she has survived the impossible. Janet is also an autoimmune patient, heart patient, with a pacemaker implant which creates an interesting combination of medical challenges.
It is said that mental attitude plays a big role in patient recovery. Janet has a few things going for her – FAITH and her “fight” mentality. These have kept her productive in helping Tony, and maintaining as normal a life as possible… as difficult as some days may be. Those of you that interact with her for business, in community events, or are part of her cancer patient network know she never gives up and is determined to live each day to its fullest. She still believes in volunteering her time and talents and will continue to work for the benefit of her community. What a beacon of HOPE she is!
Janet willingly participated in emerging immunotherapy drugs that we now see advertised on TV. She is the lone survivor of melanoma cancer patients with brain tumors diagnosed at the same time at UNC Chapel Hill. The “double edge sword” of being on the leading edge of therapy is that what saves your life can also impact you in unexpected ways. Side effects are an unfortunate, unknown, and unintended consequence. Janet’s case is one that is discussed by doctors nationwide because there is no data to predict what’s next – or what the next step is.
Tony’s research makes him one of the most informed people on nutrition, food additives, and cancer triggers. He has taken charge to ensure that diet modifications with a positive impact on treatment outcomes have been added to their daily lifestyle. Their combined efforts have provided countless data to the medical community in how to treat and advise other patients.
To complicate things, COVID created an uncertainty with oncologists regarding the patient protocols.
Thanks to her case, valuable data has been collected, and immunotherapy treatments have evolved over the past 10 years to provide better patient experience, as well as patient outcomes. Janet often jokes that she’s the immunotherapy “Guinea pig.” For this, many other immunotherapy patients can say, thank you!
In March 2024 Janet had hip replacement surgery to deal with Avascular necrosis which is (AVN) a disease that occurs when bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply caused by her treatment. However, Janet pushes forward, and you’ll often find her walking in her neighborhood to maintain physical strength. She still conducts business, is a community activist and a patient advocate.
Janet’s latest challenge is bullous pemphigoid, orthokeratosis, parakeratosis, conditions that prompt your own T-cells to attack your body. In addition to an extremely uncomfortable skin rash, she’s experiencing blisters, toenails disappearing, and hair loss. This condition limits Janet’s ability to interact with others, for fear of infection. The oncology dermatologist recommends a therapy that insurance will not cover, and Janet is ineligible to take advantage of the drug company’s subsidy program. It’s estimated she needs indefinite treatment, and at $4,000 per month, it’s a financial hurdle that she and Tony cannot shoulder.
Janet and Tony’s faith has never wavered. They are prepared for whatever the next challenge is that God puts before them. As they fight this battle, they are asking for their community’s support.
Tony & Janet humbly ask for whatever you are able to contribute to provide them with financial resources to pay for the treatment that Janet needs. Any amount is appreciated. Also, please keep Janet and Tony in your prayers. They are uplifted knowing that their spiritual family is with them on this journey.
Thank you in advance and may God bless you!
And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
Matthew 25:40
Recent Donations
Love & Prayers…
Continuing to pray for healing, comfort and peace! We love you!
I still pray for you every day to have strength and healing.
Sending you prayers, love, and light to continue your journey slowing your firm foundation of faith and perseverance with God all things are possible!
May god continue to bless you.
Hearts and prayers up Janet.
Praying for you!
One of the strongest, bravest persons I know!
Updates
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer (Romans 12:12)
March 2nd, 2025
Friends,
We are thankful that February is in our rear view mirror and we're starting to make progress on my medical challenges! The second Dupixent dose was delayed a bit more due to the latest side effects of the flu and COVID. While I'm still experiencing severe intestinal issues, my medical team approved dose #2. On Saturday, March 1st, I was able to take the shot and it's already helping. My medical team continues to closely monitor me and so far are pleased with the results of the Dupixent treatment.
The next dose will be in 2 weeks (March 15) and as mentioned previously, it's about $4,000. So, any contribution is appreciated to help defer this cost.
When I meet with my doctors later in March, we're hoping to get a better sense of the long term treatment plan and if this financial burden will continue.
In the meantime, we thank you for your support and continuing to keep us in your prayers!
Blessings,
Janet and Tony
What a February it's been already!!!
February 16th, 2025
Dear Friends,
Thank you for your most recent donations that are assisting us with the cost of my newest medication, Dupixent. As I mentioned in the last update, after the first dose, I started to see immediate relief from the rash. That continued and I was very excited about taking my second dose due to the dramatic improvement in my quality of life! Thankfully, your donations subsidized the purchase of the second dose, which was scheduled for the first week of February. Your generosity provided Tony and me with great comfort, knowing that our special circle of friends was willing to share our burden. We are truly blessed!
Unfortunately, we hit a delay taking the second dose, due to some medical challenges. Early in February, I became ill with the flu and COVID. This hit me hard - and I've been confined to bed for 12 days and am very weak. While I'm treated with antibiotics, the doctors have recommended that I postpone the second Dupixent treatment until late February. It's taking me a while to regain strength and resume my normal routine, but I'm on my way to getting there!
During my illness, Tony also became ill with a different flu strain. He was treated with holistic treatments and is progressing nicely. He's returning to work and we are grateful for his quick recovery!
As I'm planning to resume Dupixent treatment (hopefully later this week), funding for subsequent doses are still needed. As a reminder, the treatment plan is multiple doses every few weeks. So, if you are able, please continue to donate to my medication fund. Your generosity allows us to manage the financial challenge and focus on recovery.
Your prayers and continued support mean the world to us.
Thank you and God bless,
Tony & Janet Mazzurco
Do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
A message from Janet and Tony
February 2nd, 2025
We hope this update finds everyone well.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude for the generous donations towards subsiding Janet’s medication cost. Your unwavering support, love, and kindness have made a significant impact on Janet’s life over the past two weeks.
GOD IS GOOD – Janet’s rash started dissipating within 48 hours after the “loading dose” was injected on January 23, 2025!!! Janet is scheduled for the next dose Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Thanks to YOUR contributions we were able to order the next dose and it has been delivered. THANK YOU!
Janet has experienced some of the expected side effects as discussed with the UNC provider. The most significant side effect is GI-related impacts. Janet is working hard to stay hydrated, monitoring her food intake, and eating smaller amounts more frequently during the day. Janet is also experiencing significant fatigue. At the beginning of the week, Janet was too weak to achieve her 2-mile goal. However, yesterday she was able to walk 2.54 miles outside!!
We humbly ask for your continued support during this challenging time. Your generous contributions have already made a remarkable difference, and with your help, we can ensure that Janet continues to receive the necessary treatments. Any donation, no matter the size, will be immensely appreciated and will directly aid in covering the ongoing medical expenses.
Together, we can help Janet continue her journey towards staying comfortable in her overwhelming medical journey.
Thank you once again for your kindness and generosity. Please share with your friends and family.
With Love,
Janet & Tony Mazzurco
Loading dose on board!
January 23rd, 2025
Thank you for your support thus far!!! You've helped subsidize the first "loading dose" of Dupixent. Janet took this today (January 23) and is experiencing expected drug side effects of a headache and fatigue. This is a major first step in getting some relief. Your support and prayers continue to be appreciated.
Next dose will be in 2 weeks, so please continue to support this effort!
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