Campaign Story

Hello, my name is Jacob Hernandez and me and my wife Brandie are hoping to start a family. As a Wildland Firefighter for the US Forest Service, my work has always been dedicated to protecting and serving my community. However, my personal journey has presented unique challenges, including the inability to conceive naturally due to complications caused by my cancer diagnosis following my 10th year working as a firefighter.

In 2020, I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma which required four rounds of chemotherapy, each round lasting 3-4 weeks. While the treatment saved my life, it also left me with fertility challenges, requiring in-vitro fertilization (IVF). My spouse and I had the foresight to preserve a sperm sample prior to treatment, but the cost of IVF to utilize these resources is significant and exceeds our current financial capacity. Following my diagnosis the Forest Service has deemed this amongst other types of cancers as a “presumed illness” referring to presuming this illness was associated with inherent risk of harmful exposure to toxins wildland firefighters are exposed to daily. Although this is helpful for future firefighters diagnosed with related and caused cancers, currently there is no additional support or compensation being provided by any federal agencies to aid with these types of costs.

Today, I continue to work for the US Forest service and take pride in serving my community while prioritizing the safety and well-being of others. My wife works fulltime as a Natural Resource Director for the local Indian Rancheria. While we have worked to minimize costs where possible, the remaining financial gap is substantial. The estimated cost of a single IVF cycle, including medications and associated procedures, is $25,000 a sum that is difficult to afford alongside other medical and household expenses.

Receiving supportive funding would have a transformative impact on our lives. It would provide us with the opportunity to pursue parenthood without the overwhelming financial burden that comes with IVF. The chance to bring a child into our lives would not only fulfill a lifelong dream but also serve as a beacon of hope after the challenges we have faced.

We are incredibly grateful for your compassion in taking the time to read our story and any generous support you’re able to provide.

Thank you for all your consideration.

Jacob & Brandie