A Community United: Supporting Ridgewood Art Teacher Jennifer Manke’s Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer
photo of Jennifer Manke with Alum NYC visual artist and Creative Director, Alex Alpert
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, The Ridgewood and Ringwood communities are coming together to support one of their own. Jennifer Manke, a dedicated art teacher at George Washington Middle School, was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. As she transitions into an unexpected early retirement to focus on her health, her family and friends are calling on the community for support.
A Life of Service and Connection
From her childhood in Bergenfield to her college years at Mansfield University, Jen has always been a pillar of strength and kindness. Whether she’s leading a classroom in the Ridgewood School District, working out with her community at Struck Fitness, or raising her family in Ringwood, Jen’s impact is felt everywhere she goes.
The Journey Ahead
The diagnosis came as a shock in late February 2026. What was intended to be a routine MRI for an unrelated procedure revealed a mass on her pancreas. This news has led Jen to make the difficult decision to retire early from the career she loves.
To ensure she has the 24/7 care she needs, her husband, Michael Manke, will also be taking time away from work to navigate the road of treatments and appointments by her side.
How You Can Help the Manke Family
A diagnosis of this magnitude brings significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. A community fundraiser has been established to assist with:
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Medical expenses and specialized treatments.
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Daily living costs to offset the loss of dual incomes.
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Family support, allowing Jen and Michael to focus entirely on healing and their children.
“Jen has spent her life lifting others up with her creativity and generosity. Now, it’s our turn to lift her up.” — Jacqueline Stewart
How to Take Action
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Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, provides immediate relief for medical bills. Gofundme: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-jennifer-and-family-fighting-pancreatic-cancer
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Share: Post this story to your social media feeds or local Ridgewood/Ringwood community groups.
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Pray & Encourage: Your messages of love and hope provide the emotional fuel the family needs right now.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
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Tags: #RallyForJen #PancreaticCancerAwareness #RidgewoodStrong #GWMS #CommunitySupport #MankeFamil
