For the LOVE of Renee

“I LOVE.”  Two words my cousin Renee Ketchum lives by and fervently demonstrates with her genuine concern and care she offers others. In 2017, Renee was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer and in spite of her valiant fight, Renee is unfortunately in the final stage of this monster of an illness. Over the past three years, Renee has tried to continue with her routine as much as possible and one activity that has brought her joy and solace is singing in her church’s choir, at times singing through excruciating pain and many times unbeknownst to other choir members, connected to her chemotherapy portable treatment at rehearsals. Nonetheless, Renee never misses an opportunity to testify about the many blessings she has experienced through her cancer
journey.  

Over the course of weekly chemo treatments that wiped out Renee’s immune system, caused unimaginable fatigue, horrible nausea, and lost appetite, the cancer was victorious over treatment. At this point, Renee understood her prognosis was not good, yet her will to survive and thrive led her to participate in a clinical trial treatment; however, like chemo, the side affects have been hard on Renee but in Renee’s words, “ my pain and discomfort will one day help others.”  Renee is always thinking about others, even when it’s meant sacrificing her body for the sake of research. 
 

Through it all, Renee has never complained and manages to see the silver lining in the hardest situations. Unfortunately, this illness has taken a financial toll on Renee; including having no coverage for finalexpenses. We are asking for any help as Renee makes final arrangements. If you are unable to give monetary support, we ask that you please lift Renee and the family in your thoughts, prayers and love. Renee is presently hospitalized and is unable to have family with her due to COVID 19 social distancing restrictions. Let Renee know she’s not alone in her very difficult fight. Let’s cover her in “LOVE.”