Corki's Cancer Surgery Fund

I have been very hesitant about starting a Go Fund Me as I have always supported myself. With my current situation, many people have asked if they can help financially and I decided it just made sense while living on a fixed income.

A little about me... I am a retired mother of 5 that calls both Washington and Cozumel, Mexico my homes. Cozumel has been more than just a home to me though. It has been a place of friendship, healing, support, charity, and so many warm sunny days. Some of my proudest moments on the island are dressing as my alter ego “Candi Cane Corki” and handing out gifts and treats to the underprivileged, helping the medical tent at Ironman, and helping to raise money for such amazing charities like the Humane Society, Red Cross, Cam School, and Andrea who was hit by a drunk driver. While I hate to do it, my condition has forced me to give up my apartment in Cozumel and return to living in Washington while I undergo surgery and possibly chemotherapy. The hardest part though will be leaving the many groups I have come to help over the years. It's been a great way to give back to a loving community, and I will miss them.

A little about my condition... In 2010, I was diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma, then underwent 2 rounds of chemo and radiation. The treatments almost killed me, but I was able to recover, make remission and head back to Cozumel to continue giving back to the island that's given me so much. I was in remission until late 2016 when they found a grapefruit sized tumor in my uterus. After undergoing a hysterectomy, and 6 rounds of chemo I was thinking I was home free. Sadly the cancer has returned in a very aggressive form requiring me to undergo a rather substantial surgery, potentially both a colostomy and bladder removal.

I know the surgery is going to be difficult and the chances for there being serious complications are rather high, but I am hopeful that I will carry on through this. I do not know how much assistance will be needed and even though my son will be taking care of me post surgery, additional in-home nursing may be required. My insurance out-of-pocket maximum is $7500, so I'll set that as the goal, but just the thought of others wanting to help is so heartwarming and gives me strength.

I want to leave everyone with a gentle reminder – if you ever feel like something is off with your body, go get it checked. There are so many things that doctors can do when they catch it early.

Thank you all for your words of encouragement as I continue one step at a time, one foot in front of the other.

Hugs,
Corki