Together for Ashley

I’m creating this fundraiser on behalf of my best friend’s wife, Ashley, who has just been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor, most likely a form of brain cancer in the glioblastoma category. Ashley is only in her late 30s, and she and my friend Pete have a beautiful 4-year-old daughter who will turn 5 this May.

Over the past several months, Ashley’s health began to decline, and she was struggling with serious physical and mental symptoms. After a series of scans and tests, doctors discovered a large, inoperable tumor at the center of her brain, sitting atop her thalamus in the pineal gland. Soon after, Ashley’s condition worsened when fluid built up in her brain, requiring emergency surgery to place an EVD (external ventricular drain) to relieve the pressure. Further imaging revealed even more devastating news — the tumor had already spread to her spine.

Because of the tumor’s location and extent, surgery isn’t possible. Ashley’s only option is an aggressive course of Proton Therapy and chemotherapy, which she is currently receiving through Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals, over the next six weeks.

Ashley spent two weeks in and out of the ICU just to get stabilized enough to begin treatment, and now she’s at the very start of what will be a long and difficult fight. Even with insurance, the costs of her care — from the hospital stay to the specialized treatments — are staggering. On top of that, Pete is doing everything he can to support Ashley while also caring for their daughter and trying to stay afloat financially.

We’re all stepping up to help however we can — caring for their daughter, bringing meals, offering support — but the financial strain is enormous. That’s why we’re asking for help.

Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward Ashley’s medical bills, treatment costs, and helping Pete keep their family afloat during this incredibly difficult time. If you’re able to contribute or share this fundraiser, it would mean the world to all of us.

Thank you for helping my friend since grade school (!!!), his wife, and their little girl as they navigate this unimaginable challenge.