“Jamie’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and I believe that a Magic Moment would be a fitting way to honor her resilience and inspire others.”
— Emily Gibson, Jamie’s nominator
Jamie Speth is a devoted single mom of three: Jordan, who’s 13; Carsen, who’s 9; and 4-year-old Harper. Like any good mom, Jamie has always tried to set the best possible example for her children, showing them that how you respond to what happens to you is everything, and that you can still bless others in the face of your own adversity. In the last year, though, Jamie’s been called to demonstrate incredible strength, acceptance, and a determination even she never dreamed possible.
A triumph, a letdown, and a new strategy
Jamie was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022 — shattering news for a busy young mom with three kiddos — and Jamie knew she had a fight ahead of her. Of course, she rose to the challenge, and after months of grueling treatments and relentless effort, she received the uplifting news that she had triumphed over this round. The celebration was short-lived, however, as Jamie learned at her six-month checkup that the cancer had returned, and this time it had metastasized, spreading into her lungs and bloodstream. Despite her devastation, this mom had priorities to consider, and as always, the new strategy became about the kiddos. Thank goodness for her mom, Linda, whom they live with. She provides great care and support to Jamie and helps a ton with the kids, which allows Jamie to save her strength for creating positive family memories and great experiences. She also manages to contribute to her own fundraiser and the kids’ savings while encouraging others.
Teal charm bracelets, rockin’ rocks, and an indomitable spirit
Jamie’s stunning teal and white charm bracelets raise awareness for cervical cancer and funds to cover her medical bills, with a good portion going into savings for Jordan, Carsen, and Harper. She also paints some pretty rockin’ rocks, in eye-catching colors and adorned with uplifting messages. The idea was to collect a free-will donation to add to the fundraising/savings efforts, but Jamie and her kids like to inspire others, so they leave them around the community, too, and you never know where one of these day-brighteners will pop up.
Emily Gibson and Dawn Stocks are both huge fans of this spunky mom whose love and devotion for her children shines so brightly, with the courage and determination to continue spreading joy in spite of her circumstances. UBT was touched by Jamie’s indomitable spirit as well, and together with our amazing partners, we set out to make some holiday magic happen for Jamie and her family.
The family loves outdoor activities, games, and movies, so a family fun pack of passes and tickets will have them enjoying a year’s worth of activities, including the Magical Lights of Lincoln this Christmas and the Harlem Globetrotters in January. Jamie received custom artwork in each child’s best handwriting (good job, kids!), an incredible keepsake book from Be Remembered, and some much-needed pampering for both her and mom Linda. We wanted to make the year extra special for the kids, so electronics and sports gear for Jordan, Harry Potter books and Legos for Carsen, and all things pink and girly (plus an American Girl doll!) for Harper were among the loot in Santa’s sleigh to enhance the memories for this special family’s holiday.
Jamie and family, may you enjoy many magical moments together. Have an incredible holiday, Speth family!