Saucon Family Struggles in Wake of Both Parents’ Cancer Diagnoses

A Hellertown family whose world has been turned upside down by back-to-back cancer diagnoses is persevering and remaining optimistic, despite significant, ongoing health and financial challenges.

Over the past year, Jennifer and Andrew Sanchez–who are both in their 40s–have both battled cancer. Jennifer’s ovarian cancer diagnosis in February 2025 closely followed her decision to undergo a hysterectomy and double mastectomy to lower her risk of developing the disease. She credited her participation in St. Luke’s University Health Network’s DNA Answers program in late 2024 as being a catalyst for those surgeries, which were performed roughly six months apart after she learned that she carried a specific genetic mutation that put her at high risk for both ovarian and breast cancer.

“I originally participated in the DNA Answers program simply because I thought it was fascinating and wanted to contribute to future scientific research,” she explained. “I never imagined that doing so would save both my life and my husband’s.”

Today Jennifer is cancer-free and says she is grateful that both her ovarian cancer was caught early and that no other cancer was found following her mastectomy in September.

Andrew Sanchez was diagnosed with colon cancer following a colonoscopy the same month. Having lost his mother to the disease at the age of 55, Jennifer said her cancer diagnosis increased their overall sense of urgency, which led to his diagnosis.

Andrew had surgery in January and just began chemotherapy this week, Jennifer said in an update on the family’s online fundraising page. “His doctor is very optimistic, and we are holding tightly to that hope,” she said.

Due to the loss of income both Jennifer and Andrew have experienced while they have been battling cancer, their family is struggling financially and is asking for donations to help cover bills their insurance hasn’t paid, as well as other expenses.

Andrew is currently unable to work and with their emergency savings used up, Jennifer said she still owes about $6,000 in unpaid medical bills, plus when their insurance plan resets in June the family will need to meet another annual deductible.

“We are exhausted, and we still have a long road ahead,” she shared online. “Every bit of support, large or small, helps lighten the financial burden and allows us to focus our energy on what matters most: helping Andrew fight and heal.”

The Sanchezes’ teenage daughter, London, is a junior at Saucon Valley High School and is also affected by the situation.

“It has been really tough on her and it’s just not fair,” Jennifer said. “She should be worried about the spring SATs, not checking on how we are doing or worrying about what is coming next. It breaks my heart that she has to deal with any of this.”

The family’s donation page is hosted by the nonprofit HEADstrong Foundation, a national organization which helps facilitate community-supported fundraising for individuals and families affected by cancer.

Jennifer said friends and family have been very supportive since learning of her family’s struggle.

“My dad grew up in Bethlehem and has played music professionally for decades, and a lot of his friends through those connections have been generous as well,” she added.

To learn more or make a donation, visit the “Sanchez Family Fights Cancer!” page on the HEADStrong Foundation website.