Support Erin's Breast Cancer Recovery
Donation protected
Family and friends,
Many of you have heard about my sister Erin's recent breast cancer diagnosis. Our family was shocked at the news, and we truly appreciate the kind and supportive words, thoughts and prayers during Erin's surgery and recovery process. Because we lost our dynamic, hilarious Uncle Jim to pancreatic cancer in 2011, finding out that another family member is now battling this dreaded disease sent our family reeling. Your encouragement and love has meant everything to us and to my sister. Despite this terrible and unjust disease, Erin is staying strong and has been battling this head-on.
We're so thankful at this point that her initial major surgery went smoothly, but this is just the beginning for Erin. Beyond recovering from surgery, she will now have other treatments including physical therapy/occupational therapy to regain range of motion, hormone therapy to help reduce risk of cancer recurrence, follow-up surgeries, and of course any other treatment, screenings or tests that are recommended. Breast cancer is not a one and done deal. Even after a double mastectomy and other treatment, chances for recurrence in other parts of the body are very possible. Follow-up care is essential to not only recover from surgery but to help reduce risk of recurrence.
Sadly, some of Erin’s cancer treatments are only partially covered by her insurance (reconstructive surgery came with a significant out-of-pocket expense) and the medical costs are adding up very quickly. Erin is self-employed, running a small private psychotherapy practice, and pays for her own medical insurance. While she has been focused on fighting her battle with breast cancer, we know Erin is also concerned about the debt she has already incurred, and is fearful of her insurance premiums skyrocketing in 2020. One can only imagine the financial burden she now faces in addition to the physical and emotional stress of battling cancer.
In an effort to help Erin through this trying time I'm asking for your support in giving what you can to offset her medical costs. I know Erin would never ask anyone herself, and those of you who know my sister are aware that she tends to put others first. Her generosity and genuine concern for others is not only evident in Erin’s professional life, but is also a definitive part of her personality. If you have ever gone to my sister for advice or help in a time of need, you can certainly attest to this. I know I can.
Of course we do not want anyone to feel obligated to contribute, but if you were thinking of sending a get-well gift, or have been wanting to help in some way, then a donation to offset Erin's medical costs would mean the most. I know Erin wants more than anything to get back to health and focus on what she does best: helping others. Let’s make that as easy as possible for her!
Since Erin is now well on her way to becoming an official cancer survivor, she has become acutely aware of the importance of providing support and advocacy to others battling this terrifying disease. She has expressed a commitment to offer free support groups and/or advocacy services to other survivors as an extension of her counseling practice. Whatever we raise for Erin that does not go to medical expenses will aid her in organizing this endeavor as well.
Thank you so much for your continued support, prayers and thoughts.
Anthony Miller
Additional note: When I asked Erin about this fundraising campaign, she wanted to ensure that a disclaimer was added to address any of her therapy clients who may happen upon this page. Erin wants her clients to know that due to her professional ethical code, she cannot accept donations from them. Additionally, Erin wants to reassure clients who may see this page that she is okay, and that any of her clients, current or former, are welcome to reach out to her directly if they are confused, concerned or have questions.
Many of you have heard about my sister Erin's recent breast cancer diagnosis. Our family was shocked at the news, and we truly appreciate the kind and supportive words, thoughts and prayers during Erin's surgery and recovery process. Because we lost our dynamic, hilarious Uncle Jim to pancreatic cancer in 2011, finding out that another family member is now battling this dreaded disease sent our family reeling. Your encouragement and love has meant everything to us and to my sister. Despite this terrible and unjust disease, Erin is staying strong and has been battling this head-on.
We're so thankful at this point that her initial major surgery went smoothly, but this is just the beginning for Erin. Beyond recovering from surgery, she will now have other treatments including physical therapy/occupational therapy to regain range of motion, hormone therapy to help reduce risk of cancer recurrence, follow-up surgeries, and of course any other treatment, screenings or tests that are recommended. Breast cancer is not a one and done deal. Even after a double mastectomy and other treatment, chances for recurrence in other parts of the body are very possible. Follow-up care is essential to not only recover from surgery but to help reduce risk of recurrence.
Sadly, some of Erin’s cancer treatments are only partially covered by her insurance (reconstructive surgery came with a significant out-of-pocket expense) and the medical costs are adding up very quickly. Erin is self-employed, running a small private psychotherapy practice, and pays for her own medical insurance. While she has been focused on fighting her battle with breast cancer, we know Erin is also concerned about the debt she has already incurred, and is fearful of her insurance premiums skyrocketing in 2020. One can only imagine the financial burden she now faces in addition to the physical and emotional stress of battling cancer.
In an effort to help Erin through this trying time I'm asking for your support in giving what you can to offset her medical costs. I know Erin would never ask anyone herself, and those of you who know my sister are aware that she tends to put others first. Her generosity and genuine concern for others is not only evident in Erin’s professional life, but is also a definitive part of her personality. If you have ever gone to my sister for advice or help in a time of need, you can certainly attest to this. I know I can.
Of course we do not want anyone to feel obligated to contribute, but if you were thinking of sending a get-well gift, or have been wanting to help in some way, then a donation to offset Erin's medical costs would mean the most. I know Erin wants more than anything to get back to health and focus on what she does best: helping others. Let’s make that as easy as possible for her!
Since Erin is now well on her way to becoming an official cancer survivor, she has become acutely aware of the importance of providing support and advocacy to others battling this terrifying disease. She has expressed a commitment to offer free support groups and/or advocacy services to other survivors as an extension of her counseling practice. Whatever we raise for Erin that does not go to medical expenses will aid her in organizing this endeavor as well.
Thank you so much for your continued support, prayers and thoughts.
Anthony Miller
Additional note: When I asked Erin about this fundraising campaign, she wanted to ensure that a disclaimer was added to address any of her therapy clients who may happen upon this page. Erin wants her clients to know that due to her professional ethical code, she cannot accept donations from them. Additionally, Erin wants to reassure clients who may see this page that she is okay, and that any of her clients, current or former, are welcome to reach out to her directly if they are confused, concerned or have questions.
Organizer and beneficiary
Anthony Miller
Organizer
Glendale, CA
Erin Miller
Beneficiary
