Jemma was 32 years old, married to the love of her life, Lang, a proud step-mother to Riley and fur-mum to her beloved dog George when she was diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer with an EGFR exon20 mutation.
What began as sciatica pain led to the discovery of tumours on her spine, and ultimately, her full diagnosis. Jemma faced this battle head-on, enduring multiple rounds of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and even participating in a trial drug program.
Jemma was then offered access to a targeted therapy for her rare mutation. However, accessing this treatment came at an overwhelming cost of $10,000 per session, with sessions required every fortnight.
She fundraised effectively with her community, rallying behind her and taking her story to the media. This led to a feature on A Current Affair, which bolstered her donations and helped her to access the expensive treatment she needed.
During her cancer journey, wellness practices became a true sanctuary for Jemma. Through breathwork, reflection, movement, mindfulness, and nourishment she found strength not only for the body but for her mind and spirit. What began as a personal refuge grew into a deep passion that Jemma enjoyed sharing with others.
Jemma was stoic and determined not to let her cancer get in the way of her zest for life. She loved adventure, nature, and the great outdoors. She cherished every moment spent with family, enjoying good food, and had a passion for travel. Known for her caring and compassionate nature, Jemma was a much-loved member of her community, bringing warmth and light to everyone she met.
Sadly, Jemma passed away in December 2024, just before Christmas. The groundswell of support she received from her local community, and broader Australian public, while she was alive was incredible. She touched the hearts of so many and will be sorely missed.
Tenaya Wright, RCA Specialist Cancer Navigator, directly supported Jemma throughout her cancer experience and remembers her as “someone who reminded us all of the beauty in life’s small moments”.
Following Jemma’s celebration of life ceremony, her family collaborated with RCA in memory of Jemma, establishing the Jem Program to honour her legacy and have a lasting impact for others diagnosed with cancer.
The Jem Program is a heartfelt initiative that extends Jemma’s passion for holistic cancer care, complementing your medical journey.
Rare Cancers Australia is honoured to be entrusted with Jemma’s legacy and is continuing to work closely with her family on the development of the Jem Program, which currently includes this website and a Wellness Journal.
While living with advanced cancer, wellness practices became a sanctuary for Jemma Juckes. She believed deeply in caring for the whole person, alongside medical treatment.
This website brings her wish to life by offering accessible information on nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.
