A few words about Lisa and her legacy...

August 2023

I was on the brink of starting a new chapter as an empty nester, ready for new adventures while my daughter went off to college in Hawaii. A new journey for both of us – and how excited we were. Elizabeth was attending Hawaii Pacific University on Oahu – not a short distance away, yet an amazing opportunity for her. But, my life took an unexpected turn when I woke up feeling unwell just before we were set to leave. It started with subtle signs like exhaustion and chest discomfort. A trip to the ER revealed a large mass on my left lung, and I was rushed to the hospital.

After days of tests, doctors couldn't diagnose me due to a medication I’d been given in the ER. Determined not to miss my daughter's college move-in, I left the hospital and flew to Hawaii with her, unaware of the grave situation happening inside me. Once in Hawaii, my issues quickly worsened, and I was forced to return home. My left lung had collapsed, and I spent 12 days in the hospital.

During my hospital stay, I received the devastating diagnosis of plasma cell leukemia, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. I immediately started aggressive chemotherapy. It was a drastic shift from my healthy life, and I was truly in for the fight of my life.

Despite the challenges, I made it through the first hospital stay. I faced loss of appetite; my hair fell out...my independence was gone. But I knew it was necessary to fight this big, horrible monster. My life had taken an unexpected turn, and I needed to be there for my daughter.

After more rounds of chemotherapy and daily appointments, I received the best news: the chemo was doing its job and the mass on my left lung had shrunk. The treatments were working, but I still needed a stem cell transplant to potentially achieve remission. The transplant was critical, so the next phase had begun.

While the process of preparing for the transplant was daunting at best, I was determined. I’ve been supported by my amazing family and friends along the way, which helps me navigate the ups and downs...and then I received a devastating blow: insurance issues were going to delay the transplant. I had to undergo more rounds of outpatient chemo to keep the cancer at bay while I continued to advocate aggressively for myself and plead my case with insurance. This is an ongoing battle with time - and I was finally approved for the stem cell transplant procedure at IU Health in Indy.

January 2024:

The transplant chapter has now begun - I've received my central line and spent the last few days in Indy on the stem cell collection machine.

My journey is only beginning with this. This is very difficult for me to share openly...publicly. I continually pray for the physical strength and the emotional stamina to endure what lies ahead. I’ve definitely learned the power of a strong support system, the kindness of people, and the universal impact of cancer. It has also opened my eyes to the flaws in our healthcare system, inspiring me to advocate for changes in a very broken healthcare system.

My mantra throughout this journey has been a beautiful quote by Maya Angelou: "Every Storm Runs Out of Rain." I believe that this chapter, though unexpected, will lead to a greater purpose and strength in the next. Please hear me when I say - each day is a precious gift not to be taken for granted. I'm determined to keep fighting and embrace what lies ahead for me.

Thank you for your support - prayers, well wishes, donations - whatever it may be will truly help me along the way. All support offered through GoFundMe will go directly toward my mounting healthcare and transplant expenses. Please know my gratitude could not be more profound.

With ENORMOUS gratitude for each of you,

Lisa Kahoe Dohoney

Update May 6, 2024:

Lisa lost her battle with Plasma Cell Leukemia in the early morning of May 6. Please keep her daughter Elizabeth and her family and friends in your thoughts and intentions. Lisa's GoFundMe account will now transition to helping support Lisa's vision for Elizabeth's transition though the loss of her mother, as well as her future educational pursuits as she begins her sophomore year in college. Your support is appreciated, and Lisa's heart would be full of gratitude for you and your generosity, as she always was. #TeamLisa