Hello, my name is Cassandra and I am starting this fundraiser for my dear friend Ashley Startin. I've had the privilege of being Ashley's coworker, classmate, and one of her best friends for over 10 years. If you know Ashley, you have probably been the recipient of one her of amazing cupcakes, incredibly thoughtful and generous gifts, or her unmatched wit.
As many of you know, Ashley struggled with severe anemia for quite a while before finally visiting the ER in September of 2022 when her hemoglobin levels were dangerously low. Instead of getting the quick fix she was hoping for, she was given the news that she had Colon Cancer, with several other masses found in other parts of her body.
Ashely faced this news with her typical courage and grace and began chemo soon after with a strong will to fight. Throughout her journey she has continued to be, well, just so stereotypically Ashely; like having bagels delivered to all the nurses on her floor hours after surgery. She has continued to show up for her friends and family, make us all laugh, and completely spoil all her nieces and nephews (even the honorary ones) at Christmas time.
In January of 2023, Ashley ended up in the ER again from complications with her tumor. This ER trip resulted in a bowel resection and the placement of a Colostomy bag. As you can imagine, this was a major surgery with a serious life-altering outcome.
Once Ashley made it through this latest surgery I began to see some ways that her community could be able to give back to her the way she has always given to us. Her mobility and recovery at home could benefit from some changes, such as a power lift recliner and modifications to her bed.
I've set the goal of this fundraiser at $10,000, to hopefully cover the cost of the needed modifications, as well as make a dent in the steady stream of medical bills she has been receiving since this all started.
If you are reading this you have been touched by Ashely in some way, and I know you are eager to show her love in return. Thank you for your support, prayers, and positive vibes sent to Ashley during her journey to kick cancer’s ass!
Love,
Ashley’s Support Squad
