Healthcare Woes: Moving from NJ to West Virginia, Only to Return

Jess Rinker and her husband moved from New Jersey to rural West Virginia in 2019, seeking a sanctuary surrounded by nature. However, when her husband was diagnosed with stage IV esophageal cancer, they faced challenges accessing healthcare. With appointments 90 minutes away and limited medical resources in their town, they had to navigate treacherous mountain roads and rely on the support of friends and family to afford accommodations near the hospital. Recognizing the difficulties of rural healthcare, they ultimately made the difficult decision to return to New Jersey for better access to care, leaving behind their beloved rural home.