The Battle Zones

As if it's not enough to be fighting stage four breast cancer, Altadena resident Megan Jones is up against a David versus Goliath battle against her insurance carrier, California Blue Shield.

At age 36, and without a family history of cancer, Megan was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer that had already spread to her liver, brain, and bone. Everyone was shocked.

Treatments began immediately, and chemotherapy and targeted therapy have started to shrink her tumors. Everywhere, that is, except for in her brain. When her doctor prescribed additional, cutting-edge treatments that could eliminate the brain tumors and prevent new growth, her insurance company, California Blue Shield, denied coverage.

She appealed, but the insurance company is still in denial. Megan has elected to receive the treatment, with or without the insurance payments, and her family and friends are trying to raise $100,000 in 100 days to cover the costs.


I received the following email from City of Hope research scientist Dr. Susan Kane:

You might know Megan Jones from political or city circles. What you might not know is that she has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer and is currently undergoing costly therapy. Please go to http://megansfund.chipin.com/megans-fund and consider making a donation. As a breast cancer researcher, I know that Tykerb is a cutting-edge therapy that holds great promise for the treatment of breast cancer. Megan is a young, energetic and caring individual. Let’s help her fight the fight of her life.

Cancer isn't fair. Insurance companies aren't fair. I hope you'll consider leveling the playing field a little by either making a donation or spreading the word about Megan.