Team Naomi
In the early hours on Monday, September 16, just a few weeks after moving to NYC, our little ball of love Naomi went to the ER with intense hip and knee pain. She hoped to get the pain under control and then see a doctor the following day. Unfortunately, and shockingly, Naomi was instead diagnosed with leukemia (AML) and was transferred to Tisch Hospital by ambulance. The following day she was moved to the Kimmel Pavilion and she begins chemotherapy tonight (September 19).
Our hearts are breaking for the road she has ahead, and we know that her humor, tenacity, and spirit will carry her. And when it doesn't, we will carry her.
We are starting this campaign because so many people have already reached out and wanted to offer support. This felt like the most practical way to facilitate that. The funds raised from this campaign will go towards covering medical costs that are not covered by insurance (out of pocket maximums, premiums, etc), Naomi's monthly bills as she won't be working, as well as assistance with travel expenses for those of us West Coasters to travel to care for her. Others have offered airline miles as well, which is so appreciated. We anticipate that the financial need will be greater than this goal, but we are just trying to get this started as quickly as possible.
We will update this as we are able. Things are moving quickly and intensely. For now, she will be in the hospital for at least one month, then continue outpatient chemotherapy, and eventually it's looking like a bone marrow transplant will be needed. But, as with all things cancer related, the path is one step at a time. Our step right now is to have seven straight days of chemotherapy, and then wait a week. On day 14, her bone marrow will be tested again and we hope that her blast counts will be at 0%. But one step at a time...
Please send all the amount of love, prayers, and good energy and thoughts Naomi's way (but please don't send flowers, as her wing and room has to stay incredibly sterile and most gifts are restricted). She is the easiest person to love and if you know her, you know you are loved by her. How lucky we are to show up for her and show her how lucky we are to love her.
On a positive note, Naomi has a banging view of the Empire State Building. And, I have the honor of being here with her. Other family is coming soon...
We are so grateful. Thank you for supporting us and loving Naomi so fiercely. I know our community runs deep and I know the love will sustain her.
With all our love, gratitude, and hope,
Noelle (Naomi's older sister)
#TeamNaomi
