Sandra’s Cancer Transitions Fund

In February of 2020, I found a lump the size of an almond in my left breast. In June, when the lump had grown to the size of a small lime, a mammogram and three biopsies revealed what I most dreaded: Breast Cancer. 

I endured eight long months of debilitating chemotherapy, but I made it through! Now, I continue living with Metastatic (Stage IV) Breast Cancer, as there is no cure. I attend maintenance treatment every three weeks with intermittent medication for my bones and to keep my estrogen levels as low as possible in order to suppress the system that overproduces the unwanted cancer cells. 

That said, the future is uncertain and the impact of breast cancer treatment on my long-term health may be many. As I continue to adjust to the physical, psychological, and emotional affects of this disease and treatment, I’ve learned that my life and the lives of my loved ones will never be the same. More than ever I want to live a life filled with the things that bring me joy!

Working as a school psychologist for the NYC Department of Education has been one of the most rewarding jobs I have had, but unfortunately, my condition has created impairments to complete these duties to the best of my ability. I have been fortunate to receive medical accommodations to juggle the demands of work, medical appointments, and raising a child. However, I know it is only a matter of time when my PET Scan will show the return of active cancer in my body.  

It is for this reason that I need to prepare and set on a new path. My goal is to raise enough money over the next few years to open a studio space for learning, creating, and discovering the arts open to all ages as a community center. 

With my background in art, early childhood education, psychology, and school systems, I want to plant the seed for a new co-operative for those seeking a safe and fun space to learn and create.

With your support, this dream can come true! If you wish to provide monetary support please see my bio on my GoFundMe link. Any service or support you may be able to provide are welcomed too. Your donations will forever be appreciated! 

Finally, I want to take this moment to THANK YOU! All the beloved people who have seen me through this tremendously challenging chapter - You know who you are- I couldn’t do it without this support system! 

Please take care! 

Sending LOVE, LIGHT & HOPE 

-Sandra