Breast Cancer Care Expenses

Dearest Friends and Family,

I was recently diagnosed with Invasive Mammary Carcinoma, stage 2, triple negative. I will be going through chemotherapy, followed by surgery. I know that we came into this situation on a tight budget, and I know this can easily make a hard situation harder financially-speaking. I know we'll need help.

I had scheduled my mammogram the day before we were to move in with my mother. We had planned for some time to move in with my mother in order to get our financial ducks in a row before finding a location suitable for our budget. On July 15th, after a biopsy, it was determined that I have breast cancer.

I received a report on the mass found in my breast. The mass extends centrally and anteriorly, along the posterior nipple line for distance of approximately 5 cm. 

Joel is already out of vacation and sick time through his work. I don't get sick and vacation time, as I'm a 1099 contractor who works remotely. Any time we take off is unpaid. My mother can help, but she too works full time. We are looking into certain options that may cover a portion of Joel's pay, but with a budget that was already tight, we are really going to struggle to pay for what's needed.

So we wanted to seek help from our community and network of friends. The financial help will cover costs such as:

Joel and my missing work pay (that which is not covered by paid family leave at this point).

Transportation to and from appointments

The cost of a recliner where I'll be sleeping and laying for weeks post surgery and through potential treatment (someone purchased this for us so we can cross this off our list!)

Food assistance (in the event we need quick food certain nights/days or specialty foods)

Copays

Medical supplies not covered by insurance.

Preschool financial help as our daughter still needs schooling to be surrounded by joy and friends even if we're short the money to pay for it for awhile, and more.

Housecleaning 

Acupuncture as recommended for neuropathy prevention/reduction. 

Supplements to be taken as needed and permitted.

ADDED - post mastectomy clothing and bras (not covered by insurance).

A local trip after final chemo. I know this is optional, but the family and I have not gone anywhere out of the area since diagnosis and would love to give our daughter some cheap but fun experiences over summer. 

I am resourceful and am looking into as many free and discounted programs/services as possible.

If you are able to help us in this way, that would be huge. I promise it will go to good use.

Thank you for reading and helping if you can,

Jessica, Joel, and Ashby