Medical Expenses for Ciji Da Costa

I am putting together this fundraiser in hopes of collecting some financial aid my sister, Ciji, can put towards her treatment of cancer. As some of you know, Ciji was diagnosed with breast cancer in August after finding a lump. At 32 years, it came as unexpected news for someone of that age. The cancer was discovered at stage 2 and removal of the tumour and its surrounding tissue, a lumpectomy, was performed. Coming back to Canada for treatment was not an option, since she no longer is covered by healthcare here and the treatment needed to be started as soon as possible in order to prevent it from escalating any further.

While treatment in Japan has been very efficient and amongst the best, it is not free. After being accepted into school in Canada for the fall, Ciji is realizing that it may be an unrealistic goal to attend unless she finds the money before then. As complications and hurdles pop up during her chemotherapy, it has become apparent that both the length and the cost of her treatment are rising. Her body hasn't been able to recover and heal itself between chemotherapy sessions which has forced doctors to put her on a different schedule. This schedule is longer, happens more frequently at a lower dose and will end up costing more.  The emotional and physical preparation required to bring one's self to these appointments is a real strain and it's even more unfortunate to add the burden of finances into the mix, especially since she is unable to work in the same capacity as before being diagnosed.

After chemotherapy, Ciji will have to undergo radiotherapy and go from there. She has been such a shining star throughout this whole process, trying her hardest to see the positive parts.  She has appreciated the time she's been given to step back and reevaluate life and take care of herself in a way she's never allowed herself to do before. While her optimistic attitude has been making this experience a lot more manageable, I know that having financial support would alleviate some of the stress brought on by the diagnosis. If you are able to offer any kind of money so she can put them towards her bills, it would be of great help! Please feel free to reach out to her as well, words of support go a long way when you are going through something as isolating as cancer.