The Fundraiser No One Wants: For Lauren-Farr

We've all seen these pages; I never dreamed I'd be making one for my twin sister, Lauren. I'm not good at many things, but I've been told I can write reasonably well, and my hope is to help update you all so you can help us rally around Lauren and David and their beautiful daughters (Amira, 7 and Imogen, 1) after her thyroid cancer diagnosis this past week.

Our family appreciates your prayers, your messages and your offers for practical help during this new season.

Lauren went to the doctor nearly a year ago for neck pain, and an ultrasound revealed a large tumor. A long-awaited biopsy 8 months later showed the tumor to be cancer. And that's where we are today.

Thankfully we know most thyroid cancers are very treatable. And we are banking on the math (a very un-Farr family thing to rely on) that this is the case here too.

There are many unanswered questions right now. But we are grateful that Lauren has been able to make an appointment with a top specialist at the University of Pennsylvania in early March. Additionally, as part of her chronic Lyme treatment team, she's gotten access to a doctor who can help support her body with other treatments as she faces surgery and possibly radiation.

Both Lauren and David do not have paid time off with their jobs. Likely, they face at least one lost income during treatment, surgery and recovery.

So many of you have reached out in support, asking, "What now?"

First. Pray! Pray! Pray!

Second. I'd love to take some weight off their shoulders during this time and provide meals and funds they can use to lessen their load (help with medical costs, household cleaning, take out on nights that seem extra long, childcare, travel costs for treatment in Philadelphia, maybe even a "Survivor" tattoo and a skydiving trip to celebrate when this is all over....for Amira obviously...)

Third. Text her inappropriate memes whenever you want!

Lastly. Hug a kitten or a small child....because, frankly that can't hurt and will probably make the world a better place.

Thank you for your love for my better half--she may have gotten the worst DNA between the two of us, but she's definitely got the better heart and dare a say...better face.