On January 1, 2026, we lost Carla very rapidly after being diagnosed on December 15, 2025 with clear cell hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC accounts for the majority of primary liver cancers. It is commonly found in individuals with a cirrhotic liver, generally caused by Hepatitis B & C (HBV & HCV), alcohol-related liver disease (ALD), and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

​

This diagnosis was shocking to all of us, including Carla. Not only is this a cancer that largely affects men over women, Carla had no underlying conditions aligned with this diagnosis. She was a healthy 48-year-old woman, who, on October 11, 2025, had just completed a half-marathon (the Myrtle Mini Marathon).

​

Fox Chase Cancer Center provided Carla and her family with compassionate care during a time filled with uncertainty.

​

Team Carla Jean exists to carry her strength and light forward ~ through movement, through community, and through the commitment to keep showing up. We run in honor of Carla and to raise money for Fox Chase and its ongoing efforts in cancer research.

​

Thank you for supporting Team Carla Jean and our efforts to raise money for Fox Chase Cancer Center.

Every mile. Every memory.