hi, friend!

I'm so glad you're here.

my name is jessica (she/her) - also lovingly known as jayray!
I'm a queer writer, advocate, creative, and rectal cancer survivor. my love for poetry began in high school and has always been a safe space for my creativity.

in january 2024, I was diagnosed with rectal cancer at the age of 29. in february 2023, I had genetic testing done which showed that I have a mutation called lynch syndrome (PMS2), which puts me at a higher risk for colorectal and endometrial cancer. my symptoms were brushed off as IBS, but knowing I had lynch, I pushed my doctor to do a colonoscopy. the colonoscopy showed a 6cm mass in my rectum and I began my immunotherapy treatments in february 2024.

while this flipped my world upside down, it helped me focus on the mark I want to leave on this world. my mission is to empower others to use their voice and lean into their intuition through advocacy, inclusivity, community, and empathy. self-advocacy in the medical space literally saved my life – I want to empower my generation, and those to come, to speak up for themselves and have the confidence to make decisions that are best for them. inclusivity is something that guides my way of thinking, even prior to my cancer diagnosis. I am constantly looking for ways to break barriers and society’s mold for what “should be.” this way of thinking fuels my deep love of community. there is so much we can learn from each other, and community provides a safe and welcoming place to do so. empathy is the root of all these pieces and the catalyst for lasting change.

I live my life guided by a soft heart and a fierce tongue, which is evident in my writing and advocacy. as a jersey girl based in san diego, I find comfort in painting on the beach, chasing sunsets, women’s sports, and sharing a delicious meal with the people I love!