Help Alise Svihla as she Fights Colon Cancer

Alise is currently facing the fight of her life and needs her community to rally around her.

I am one of the people lucky enough to not only call Alise my colleague but also my friend. Alise started at CCU in May this year and immediately became part of the Coastal family. Every day I watch as she pours everything she has into the student-athletes, the staff she supervises, and the University overall. She radiates energy and light and is always such a joy to be around.

In October, shortly after Alise's 40th birthday, she began experiencing excruciating pain in her abdomen and chest. After a visit to the ER with no answers, her doctor was very responsive and ordered a battery of tests. The tests confirmed the devastating news - Alise has Stage 4 colon cancer metastasized to her liver. At first, it was unclear if treatment would be an option. However, the good news is that several hospitals are working on a treatment plan, and Alise will be able to choose which route to take in the next couple of weeks.

There is so much still unknown, but we know that Alise is ready to fight! Treatment will include surgery and chemotherapy over the next six months and will most likely be in Virginia or North Carolina. The expenses are sure to add up when you consider travel expenses for Alise and her family, co-pays, missed work, prescriptions, etc.

Alise’s optimism and strength are unbelievable. She is handling this better than anyone could have expected, but she will need so much support as she embarks on this battle. She has spent the last 20 years in higher education giving to her students and others around her, and it is now time for her to let others help.

Please consider giving to help Alise with the expenses that she is sure to incur. We can’t fight this battle for her, but we can help take away her financial concerns so she can focus on healing. Thank you for your support and prayers.