Madalen and Her Battle Against Breast Cancer

Madalen's cancer journey began in April of 2023 when she noticed minor dimpling of her skin. She was concerned enough to dive head first into research, doctors appointments and test after medical test. Finally, on June 3rd, the pathology report delivered her worst fear - she had breast cancer and it had spread to her lymph nodes.

Hearing the dreaded "C" word is something that can make all of us pause, maybe even put us into a state of mild panic. That's because it can happen to any of us, at any time. None of us are prepared for it and none of us are deserving of the chaos it creates. Madalen has always been a hardworking individual who singlehandedly raised and provided for her two daughters. She has never been a stranger to hard times but was able to pull through by sheer determination and force of will. After she successfully brought up her children and became a proud grandmother of one, she thought surely all the hard work had paid off and she could enjoy her little family and the home she was able to purchase all by herself. She quietly celebrated her accomplishments and thought it might be clear skies and smoother sailing, at least for a while. Life sometimes has other plans and cancer is a financial and emotional curveball thrown at all who are diagnosed.

On August 10th Madalen completed the first hurdle, a double mastectomy with the removal of sentinel lymph nodes. Recovery from this surgery typically lasts two months. She will then need many rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. Naturally, it has been very stressful to think about being out of work for at least five months, if not more. She has always relied on herself to pay the mortgage and bills but without a paycheck, this won't be possible. Her job does not offer paid medical leave so for the next few months, she is on her own. By contributing to this GoFundMe campaign, we can help Madalen with the daily costs of living, household expenses, medical treatment and gas to and from the cancer center. The thought of tackling all this by herself is overwhelming and stressful and has already impeded her focus on recovery and healing. Madalen will be anxious to get back to work but until then,

she needs us.

No donation is too small and what may seem like a modest amount will make a huge impact on her life. Let's show her that she is not alone in this battle. Your kindness, empathy and prayers will go much farther than you could imagine. Please share this campaign within your networks so we can make a ripple effect of support.

With gratitude,

The family and friends of Madalen

Madalen Update 09/13/2023 -

Recovery from the surgery is progressing as it should. She is waiting on clearance from her doctor to get her port installed and if all goes according to plan, she will start chemotherapy at the beginning of October. It's a long road ahead but the journey is off to a promising start!

Just prior to her surgery, Madalen had the opportunity to work with Maranatha Volunteers International in Kajiado, Kenya to help school age children with their dental and vision needs, as well as helping to construct different parts of the school. It was indeed a life changing trip.

Update 02-14-2025 - Madalen wanted to express her gratitude and give an update in her own voice:

"Words cannot express how grateful I have been for your support during this time in my life. Thank you so much for your kind and generous donations. It is deeply appreciated, and it truly helped to lighten the load during this challenging time. Your generosity and support have truly touched my heart. Thank you for being so wonderful. You helped me in ways I can't explain.

Thank you again for all the love and kindness. It’s been almost 2 years since my breast cancer diagnosis.

Whatever happens, I'm happy. I wish my cancer would go away but that's just the imperfection of my body. I'll keep fighting and living my life, that will never change."

-Madalen