Our sister, Kendra, was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer in June of 2023, which metastasized to her brain, hip, a few vertebrae and liver starting about a little over a year ago. She has fought a valiant fight, and at one point all signs of 'living' cancer were gone. However, the cancer in her brain and liver has returned. Throughout her battle with cancer, she has also struggled with managing her diabetes each time a treatment changed, she's dealt with blood clots, and has fought a nasty bout of pneumonia. She's been through radiation twice, has had surgery, and is on her 5th different type of chemotherapy. (We think, we've lost count for sure.) She has bravely fought through every stage of this disease, often with more courage, grace, and humor than those around her.
Unfortunately, every new hurdle has been accompanied by more and more expensive treatments. For example, the medication that she picks up at the pharmacy related to the cancer alone costs $732 per month -- that's out of their pocket, after insurance has paid their share. That is not including any hospital or clinic bills (which include the medications given during her treatments -- that medication is even more), insulin or diabetic supplies, or gas to drive back and forth to Sioux Falls for treatments and appointments. That doesn't include anything purchased (or that might need to be purchased in the future) to keep Kendra safe or comfortable in her home. This is all in addition to losing the household income when Kendra was no longer able to work.
It is because of this that we have set up this GoFundMe account. We humbly ask anyone who has the means to help us make this time a little easier for John and Kendra by eliminating some of the financial burden. The funds will be used cover her medications and medical supplies for the foreseeable future, and then will be used cover her medical bills. As older siblings, we just want Kendra to be able to focus on the things that really matter right now, and not have to worry about money or how they will make ends meet. Any little bit helps -- no amount is too small. Thanks in advance for your generosity!
Dawn, Jeremy, and Erin