Stories of Hunger

When Jane, of Chaffee, was diagnosed with lung cancer three years ago, she had to quit work because the cancer treatments left her feeling so tired and drained. At the time, she could eat only soft proteins, such as peanut butter, yogurt and soup because the radiation treatments made her throat sore.

“It’s an adjustment going from 100 to zero,” Jane said of her treatment journey.

It was during this time of unemployment and high medical bills that Jane turned to the monthly food pantry at Chaffee VFW, one of Southeast Missouri Food Bank’s member agencies.

The fruit, canned goods, pasta and meat she receives help her out tremendously and eases the burden of paying for groceries.

“This is a blessing for me,” Jane said. “It has made a world of difference. Thank you very much for the support. It makes life much easier for me.”

Although she still struggles financially, Jane is happy to be cancer-free for the past two years.