Maryann Passanisi’s Family Fund

Two weeks ago our dear friend and loving caretaker of our children Nittaya, simply known to many of us as just Tai, received earth shattering news. While at work she got an urgent call from her doctor that she needed to take her 11 year old daughter Maryann to the hospital that second because her white blood cells were critically low. Tai left our house in tears and expressed concern for our children’s well being. Even in a time of such despair she wanted to make sure our kids would be ok and taken care of. That is just how Tai is: thinking about others well being over her own and taking care of all children around her.

The next few days were a whirlwind of tests and treatments. Maryann required multiple blood transfusions to stabilize her white blood cells. The doctors finally gave them the news they were dreading. Her sweet, talented, and loving daughter Maryann got diagnosed with cancer. They found tumors near her lungs and in her stomach. The official diagnosis is stage 3 Hodgkin Lymphoma.

The good news:The type of cancer that Maryann was diagnosed with is extremely treatable and typically is very responsive to treatment. Although the treatment is relatively straightforward, Maryann will have to go though a minimum of 5 rounds of chemo and radiation.

How you can help: Nittaya is Maryann’s primary caretaker and this requires her to take at least a couple of months off work. Our family will continue to pay her during this time however, the medical bills are costly and are stacking up. Any money raised will go towards costs associated with Maryann's treatment and recovery. Please donate, every little bit helps! Tai appreciates everyone’s love and support. She plans to update us all about her recovery through this page. Thank you from the Yoost family.