THE JESSE PROJECT
Fuck Cancer ; Keep Fucking Going. Be A Good Human.
This quote by the iconic actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn captures the spirit behind the Jesse Project. It is a metaphor for hope and optimism that gardening fosters, symbolizing a belief in future growth, rewards, and a better future for the person planting and the world around them. For Jesse, gardening became something to focus on, care for, and believe in during the hardest days of cancer treatment.
The idea for the Jesse Project began when an amazing woman surprised Jesse with three African violets the day before his second round of treatment. That unexpected act of kindness brought comfort during a moment when everything felt heavy. From that moment on, Jesse wanted to create small, meaningful experiences for others facing difficult chapters in their own lives.
If even one person feels the same sense of hope Jesse did when those flowers arrived, the project is a success.
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”
Fuck Cancer ; Keep Fucking Going
For Jesse, living with Stage 4 Lymphoma and a “plant problem” became more connected than he ever expected. In many ways it feels like he was meant to do this, given the chance to grow something meaningful and even purify the air he breathes.
But the heart of the Jesse Project goes far beyond cancer.
The purpose is to create a moment, a small moment, where someone’s hard experiences fade, even briefly. The interactions Jesse has had through the project so far have given him tremendous faith in humanity. They’ve helped him forget, even for a second, the road he’s on.
And the hope is that if you’re reading this, it gives you a moment of relief too.
Our Bracelets
As Jesse’s story spread, so did the symbols of the project. Bracelets have been sent across the country and even to other parts of the world, landing in the hands of people going through something difficult. So far the bracelets have reached:
2 continents, 13 states, and at least 4 countries.
Every time someone shares a bracelet, the message continues to spread and so does the impact of the Jesse Project.
Tell us where your bracelet has traveled or how it found you.
Our Plants
Alongside the bracelets, Jesse grows African violets and other plants to give to people who could use a moment of comfort or hope. These plants take time (often 8–9 months from seed to flower) so the gifting process is slow and intentional. As the plant portion of the project continues to grow, the goal is to eventually create a way for people to request a plant for someone who needs a reminder to keep going.
Any and all donations go directly toward continuing and growing this project. Jesse has been asked many times how people can help, so the option is here. If it’s something you feel called to do, it’s deeply appreciated.
Fuck Cancer ; Keep Fucking Going.
Be A Good Human.
Fuck Cancer ; Keep Fucking Going. Be A Good Human.
Our Partners
