Young South Jersey Woman's Cancer Battle Reaches End Stage: How To Help Jillian

MARLTON, NJ — A young South Jersey woman who's inspired countless people during her battle with cancer has received a terminal diagnosis. Now, Jillian Schlueter and her family could use some help during her final chapter.

Jillian, 28, was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in May 2021 — only two days before graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Cancer stripped the Marlton resident of her dream to become a nurse. But since then, she extended her reach to help others in a different way — by opening up to the public about her difficult battle with the disease.

Despite aggressive treatment, Jillian's cancer has spread to her brain, liver, lungs and bones. She was diagnosed last month with triple-negative, Stage 4, terminal breast cancer.

Friends, family members and people who never even met Jillian helped support her throughout her battle with cancer. Now, loved ones are raising money via GoFundMe for the heavy financial burdens associated with the diagnosis, from medical expenses to end-of-life care.

"When Jillian was first diagnosed with cancer, hundreds of people stepped up to help carry some of the financial stress that comes with a diagnosis like this," Gina Schlueter, Jillian's mother, wrote on the GoFundMe page. "She could not be more appreciative of the love and support she received. She needs our help again."

These past two years have been grueling for Jillian, with dozens of treatments, multiple surgeries and hospitalizations. But in that time, she's offered transparency about her battle with cancer and educated others about the disease.

In 2021, the Eagles honored Jillian during Critical Catch — the team's halftime salute to cancer survivors. She has also spoken publicly about her initial difficulty obtaining a diagnosis.

Doctors dismissed it because she was so young, she's said. Last October, she graced the cover of Philadelphia Magazine's Think Pink section — a project with the American Cancer Society that emphasized the importance of screening for early detection.

But amid the difficulties, Jillian found ways to bring light to her journey — even when facing death.

"No one is ready to say goodbye to their life when they're in that moment, but I was at peace," Jillian told Philadelphia Magazine. "I realized that it's about quality of life, not quantity of life."

View the GoFundMe page here.