Aly’s Cancer Crushing Fund

UPDATED 1/17/19, FROM ALY: I have been diagnosed with two different types of cancers; colon and appendiceal cancers. Furthermore, the appendix had perforated causing the cancer to spread to my abdominal wall and lymph nodes. When I awoke from the surgery and the doctors told me what they had found, the first words out of my mouth were "Well this isn't going to fucking kill me so what do we do now"? And that is exactly where we are now. Here's what we do now: I am working with an amazing team of doctors from Kaiser to University of Maryland and Duke University. I start 6 months of chemo treatment this month and I will have an additional surgery of the abdomen called the HIPEC (Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy) for additional concentration of the infected area. I have undergone genetic testing to conclude why a woman of my age would contract such a rare cancer like appendiceal; could it be genetics, my genes or simply from years of inflammation? I have THE strongest support system, the MOST loving friends, family and community and personally feel like I have the strength of a thousand horses to take this life experience on. Would I have chosen this? Obviously not, but for some reason, it chose me. It's not a fight I'm losing, it's just going to be a hard one requiring lots of focus, dedication, nutrition and rest. The love I receive, the prayers I have felt and the overwhelming sense of energy in my life will continue to guide me forward and out into a cancer-free future. We truly appreciate the outpouring of concerns and well wishes. Please continue to follow my progress through weekly journal posts, uploaded pictures and videos.

UPDATED: Despite a successful surgery Aly’s doctors discovered stage 4 cancer. At this point all we know is that the cancer has spread around her abdomen. We have to wait for her pathology to come back before we will know more and that will take some time. Unfortunately we won’t have any answers until after Christmas. Aly is in very good spirits, she is calm and resolute about kicking this cancer’s ass! We understand that this is deeply upsetting news and that many of you will have questions. At this time we ask that you give Aly space so that she may stay focused on rest and healing. We are so grateful to everyone and we will continue to update you. Please continue to send her your love and prayers.


ORIGINAL POST: After living with ulcerative colitis for over half her life, Aly is undergoing an emergency colectomy this weekend. Her colon will be completely removed and the road to full recovery will be a long and demanding one. Aly and her husband Patrick have 2 year old twin boys, Hudson and Cash, who depend on their mom for 100% of their day to day care.  Aly has been fighting her way through years of a chronic autoimmune disease like a champion, never complaining or feeling sorry for herself. She is always the first person to call and check in, offer help or support, she is always putting others' needs before her own. There is nothing that Aly wouldn't do for the people she loves. Please help show Aly that it's a two way street! Aly and Patrick are going to need as much help as they can get looking ahead to medical expenses, time out of work & help with the kids. Anything you do to help will be received with love and appreciation.