LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A school community is coming together to support a local teacher who has recently been diagnosed with cancer and is preparing for surgery and treatment as she gains strength to face the future.

Jessica Vanzella's family, friends, and former students share their love for her with 8 News Now.

Kean Allen Dino, a former student of Vanzella, said, "I think she's an amazing teacher.".

"Watching her is really inspiring," family friend Simone Hinharas said. “She should help everyone around her.”

While teaching at Somerset Academy in North Las Vegas for the past eight years, Vanzella has changed countless lives.

Tanya Kennings described Vanzella as loving and caring. "She makes science come alive."

These loved ones are coming together to support Vanzella as she undergoes treatment for breast cancer.

  • Read More » Jessica Vanzella (Photos: Tanya Jennings)

  • Read More » Jessica Vanzella (Photos: Tanya Jennings)

  • Read More » Jessica Vanzella (Photos: Tanya Jennings)

  • Read More » Jessica Vanzella (Photos: Tanya Jennings)

  • Read More » Jessica Vanzella (Photos: Tanya Jennings)

Cindy Vanzella, Jessica's mother, said, "We need everyone's help to make her life easier.". She doesn't need to worry about anything.

The main part of that is raising $85,000 to cover chemotherapy, surgeries, and other procedures.

In Cindy Vanzella's opinion, "she will have a lot of unpaid and uncovered expenses.". She has a long way to go with school and illness.

Currently, they have received just over $8,500, but they are working to obtain more funding as soon as possible.

Astonished to see so many behind her, Jessica told 8 News Now.

I'm just bursting with joy that the school and the community and my friends are doing so well," she said. "You've supported me, that's outrageous."

Those who have witnessed her heart in action say it's the least they can do for someone who has given so much.

Dino concluded, "We all come from teachers.". "We are what we are today because of our teachers."

Here is Jessica's GoFundMe page if you'd like to contribute to her treatment costs.

Additionally, students plan to hold a community car wash outside the school to raise more donations.

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