FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — After celebrating 10 years cancer-free, one of Flagler County’s most inspiring childhood cancer survivors is once again facing an unexpected medical challenge—and the community is being asked to help.

Live Like Cameron co-founder Melisa Fulling is asking residents to rally around Hannah Jankowski, a longtime member of the organization’s “Flagler Warriors,” as she undergoes major surgery on Tuesday, August 4, to treat an infection in the prosthetic knee she received during her childhood cancer treatment.

“Many of you know Hannah as one of our incredible childhood cancer survivors,” Fulling shared. “If you’ve ever met Hannah, you know she is so much more than a childhood cancer survivor. She has become an inspiration to so many of the children facing childhood cancer.”

Hannah recently sought emergency medical care after experiencing severe pain in the same leg where she underwent surgery during her cancer treatment. Doctors determined she had developed an infection in her prosthetic knee.

During surgery, physicians will remove the infected prosthetic knee and replace it with a temporary straight rod infused with antibiotics while the infection is treated. The temporary implant is expected to remain in place for approximately two months before the next phase of treatment.

The recovery will be especially challenging. Hannah will be unable to bend her knee and must keep her leg completely straight, elevated and non-weight-bearing throughout the healing process. Those restrictions create a significant transportation challenge, as she will need to travel to doctor’s appointments, physical therapy sessions and any emergency medical visits while lying down with her leg fully extended.

Live Like Cameron is seeking a van, RV or similar vehicle that would allow Hannah to travel safely during her recovery. The organization is also asking anyone with connections to rental vehicle companies or other transportation resources to come forward if they can donate or provide a discounted vehicle for the approximately two-month recovery period.

“For years, Hannah has been there for other childhood cancer warriors,” Fulling said. “She is always the first to encourage our warriors, volunteer her time, attend our events and remind others that there is hope. She has spent years giving back to other children facing the very battle she once fought. Now it’s our turn to be there for Hannah.”

In addition to transportation assistance, Live Like Cameron is asking the community to keep Hannah in their thoughts and prayers as she undergoes surgery and begins what is expected to be another long road to recovery.

Anyone who can help with transportation resources or has a potential connection is encouraged to send a private message to Live Like Cameron.

As Hannah has demonstrated throughout her life, courage is often found in the face of adversity. Now, the community that has watched her inspire countless young cancer patients has an opportunity to return that same compassion, hope and support during her time of need.

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