Breast Cancer Treatment Fund for Rachel Groothuis

Hello, my name is Eliza Henderson and I am raising funds to help my twin sister, Rachel Groothuis, and her family (husband, Ryan, and 4 year old daughter, Emi) as she goes through treatment for breast cancer.

Rachel was diagnosed with breast cancer on April 1, 2024, a date which will forever mark a 'before' and an 'after' in the lives of Rachel and her family. This diagnosis came as a huge shock given Rachel's young age (41 years old), healthy lifestyle, and the lack of cancer running in her side of the family.

In the last three months, in addition to dealing with Rachel's life altering cancer diagnosis, Rachel and Ryan have been navigating the cumbersome and overwhelming world that is health care and health insurance. After numerous hurdles, Rachel finally has a treatment plan and path forward.

Rachel will begin her breast cancer treatment with a double mastectomy in late July (3 days before our shared birthday) with additional surgery for reconstruction this Fall at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute in Portland, Oregon.

Rachel and Ryan have an incredible network of family and friends who have reached out asking how they can help. Relieving the financial burden associated with Rachel's cancer diagnosis is one way that we can each make a huge difference in their lives.

Despite OHSU being in network with their insurance plan, Rachel and Ryan will still be responsible for 20% of the cost of her care at OHSU and a significant out of pocket expense. Donated funds will be used towards medical costs, travel expenses related to treatment from their home in McMinnville to Portland, childcare to allow Rachel time off to receive treatment and recover, and services like housecleaning and lawn mowing to relieve some burdens from Rachel and Ryan during this time.

By donating what you are willing and able, you will be contributing directly to Rachel's medical treatment and recovery and give the entire family the ability to heal without the added stress of the financial implications of her cancer treatment. Any amount is appreciated and is one way that we can surround Rachel, Ryan and Emi with love and support during this incredibly difficult time.

Please feel free to share my sister's story and this fundraising page with anyone you think would be willing to support her.

With love and overwhelming gratitude,

Eliza Henderson