Anita's fight against terminal cancer

Dear friends and family

I am reaching out with heavy hearts to share the journey of my beloved mother, Anita, who has been courageously battling cancer since November 2022. Despite her incredible strength and determination, the road has been unimaginably difficult, and we are now facing the toughest chapter yet.

Anita was first diagnosed in late 2022 and immediately underwent an intense course of treatment — 8 rounds of IV chemotherapy followed by 6 weeks of oral chemotherapy and radiation. By August 2023, we received the joyful news that her scans showed a complete response. We were hopeful, with Anita entering a phase of surveillance without needing further active treatment.

However, in April 2024, our hopes were shattered when a local recurrence was discovered. While preparing for surgery, Anita’s condition worsened drastically — she was rushed to the hospital for a bowel obstruction and underwent emergency surgery. During this procedure, doctors found the cancer had aggressively spread to her liver and uterus, marking her diagnosis as stage 4 metastatic cancer. Treatment was delayed as she recovered from this life-saving surgery.

From September 2024 onward, Anita bravely endured 12 cycles of IV chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Though she showed a good response, the cancer in her liver persisted. The only next step was a major, highly complex surgery at OHSU in Portland, Oregon — including liver resection, a complete hysterectomy, and the installation of an HAI pump, a rare and specialized device.

On March 31st, 2025, when the surgery began, the surgical team discovered unexpected cancer spread to the abdominal wall. They had to abandon the operation, and devastatingly, Anita was diagnosed with peritoneal metastasis.

Now, we are consulting with a new oncologist at Fred Hutch Cancer Center to explore any possible next steps.

Throughout this long, grueling journey, Anita has fought with unwavering spirit and grace. Our family is doing everything we can to support her, but the emotional and financial toll has been overwhelming. Between constant medical appointments, travel to specialty centers, and out-of-pocket expenses, we are humbly asking for help from our community.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward Anita’s ongoing care, travel, medical bills, and helping her maintain the best quality of life possible. If you are unable to donate, sharing her story means the world to us.

Thank you for standing with us and lifting up Anita during this time. Your support, prayers, and kindness truly make a difference.

With gratitude,

Anita, Vivian, Nim, Nelson