It’s hard to find the words to ask for help, but if there’s one thing I know, it’s that our people show up. So here we are, sharing Julie’s story, because we believe in the power of community, love, and collective care.
On September 10th, our beloved Julie, my sister-in-law, Jomma to Regan, Miranda’s wife, chosen family, hilarious and heart-filled friend, and Auntie to a fleet of nieces and nephews, was diagnosed with breast cancer after her very first routine mammogram.
While the news has been heavy, there’s also hope and clarity. Here’s what we know:
- It’s early stage 2 — caught early (thankfully!).
- It’s hormone receptor positive and HER2 negative, which means treatment options are solid and promising.
- She carries the BRCA2 gene mutation, which increases long-term risk but also gave a clear, proactive path forward.
After meeting with her medical team and weighing all the options, Julie is scheduled for a double mastectomy on November 11th. This major surgery will not only remove the active cancer but will significantly reduce the chance of recurrence or future diagnosis.
Why We're Asking for Help
Julie is facing an extended recovery, physically, emotionally, and financially. And while she’s approaching this with her usual strength, humor, and grace, the reality is: healing takes time and resources.
If you know Julie, you know she’s the first to show up with humor, warmth, and fierce love when others need her. She's a bringer of laughter, a keeper of memories, and a force of love in our family and friend circle.
Now it’s our turn to show up for her!
We are deeply grateful for your love and support. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of Team Julie!
With love,
Melissa & Family
FUCK CANCER #TeamJulie #AuntieJulie
Organizer and beneficiary
Melissa Maxwell
Organizer
Renton, WA
Julie Reisman
Beneficiary