Jen Wetzel earned her 2nd degree black belt in December 2022. One year later, in December 2023, she was diagnosed with incurable brain cancer: glioblastoma.

Her prognosis was 18 - 24 months.

Even after the diagnosis, she continues to have perfect attendance at karate class. No more driving, no work as a doctor, long calls with insurance, family time and one trip to Florida.

But a predictable routine: Chemo, radiation, karate. 

She wears a hat to cover her lost hair. She moves slower. But she is one of the most dedicated karate students we have ever had. She takes class with her two teenage kids, both assistant instructors at Action Karate.

Her husband Tim Wetzel was the head instructor. He stepped back and now works as a part-time staff instructor to dedicate more of his time to family.

Following the chronology, she wants to test for third degree, but she has a difficult road of treatment ahead. The physical demands of the illness would make every segment impossible: the fitness, the memorization, the performance. 

The news of her diagnosis was crushing. Many karate families are part of the support system that takes her to doctor appointments and makes meals.

Instructors from all over asked what they could do for her and her family. 

We now have an answer:

Donate to the Wetzel Family Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-wetzels-weather-this-storm

Sign Up For Their Meal Train: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-wetzels-weather-this-storm

Read more about her story here: https://www.actionkaratema.com/post/a-third-degree-black-belt-test-like-no-other