Please Help Barbara Tumm-Cooley's Breast Cancer Journey

Dear Friends + Family,

A few weeks ago, My Daughter, Barbara (BJ) was diagnosed with breast cancer (Stage 3 - "invasive mammary carcinoma, nottingham grade"). Barbara is the mother of a 2 year old daughter and a 6 month old son (still breast feeding). This diagnosis has shocked all of us (friends, family, clients, etc), however, no surprise to those of us who know Barbara so well, she is not wallowing in self pity, she is demonstrating her amazing strength and optimism at this early stage in the process.

She is currently evaluating all care options, including chemo and holistic (a combination of both).

The care and support she has received so far has been fantastic, and we are so grateful that she has access to such excellent professionals along with awesome friends (her husband Lou and her sister Kristie)

However, the cost of treatments and healing solutions not covered by insurance (income loss, specialty dental work, medications, travel / lodging, and much more) significanly adds to the stress of Barbara and family.

Our goal is to raise $72,500 to ensure Barbara can focus on her treatment and recovery each week, without the added stress of this financial burden. All funds donated will go directly to supporting her healing. * I (Robert) will share more about the cost breakdown as that information is available.

The following is a beautiful perspective on Barbara from her good friend Elmore!

A favorite flower of Barbara “BJ” Tumm-Cooley is the Gerber daisy. As a symbol of purity, innocence and transformation, they are a perfect flower for her, especially in this moment

as she has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. Like the flower striving to bloom, there can sometimes be storms to weather. With roots in the ground as onestanding amidst a beautiful garden, one can face the harsh sun and know that healing rains will come.

Like the Gerber daisy, Barbara is deeply connected to our mighty earth, and she is surrounded by friends and family who are inviting you to join them in providing nourishing

support to her as she courageously begins her healing journey. Those encircling her are bringing forth a plan that incorporates chemotherapy, herbology, chelation, and other modalities that are gentle on the system and provide well rounded treatment. At this time, health insurance companies cover the mainstream treatments and when one chooses other avenues to enhance the healing process, they must pay out of pocket.

With the cheerfulness and optimism expressed by the Gerber daisy, Barbara is facing this transformational journey and striving to leave fear behind. She has a six month old son

and two and a half year old daughter who radiate the love given to them by their mother. She is a self employed personal trainer, which means when she is undergoing treatment she

does not have sick leave benefits. Another layer of complication is added to her scenario because her wonderful husband spends three hours a day commuting for work. Through many unfoldings of love from people like you, Barbara will find her way to step throughthis journey and continue to bloom.

The goal of this campaign is big, to match the size of the gifts Barbara brings to this world. As she attains her goal of full wellness, the world is going to receive the essence of a fully

flowering life, that continues to serve, as Barbara beams with happiness, joy and positivity, just like the Gerber daisy. Whenever you see a Gerber daisy, pause to honor its powers of promoting emotional healing and balance, and think of Barbara. (Thank You Elmore DeMott for this beautiful write-up)

Lou, Kaley Grace, Luka, and Barbara

Luka and Kaley

Barbara and the kids

Kaley and Luka

Barbara (BJ) when she was a bit younger. She has always been a positive influence on everyone she interacts with, and always there for her family (parents, nieces, nephews, grandparents, etc), friends, and clients in the most unselfish and heartfelt ways. She has always held the dream of one day having her own children. Her primary goal is to now fully recover and be the amazing Mom for many years to come.