What would you do if in the blink of an eye, your life was turned upside down? Or in my case inside out.

On July 9, 2018 at 40 years old raising 6 kids that's what happened to me. I found out during exploratory surgery for abdominal pain that I have Stage 4 Colon Cancer. I went on short term disability leave at that time to begin my battle.

However, I received a letter December 24th from my employer of 16 years, that my medical coverage which I rarely used for more than a routine physical is being cancelled as of January 31st due to a 6 month limit being reached. The only coverage option offered to me was COBRA, a program to allow workers to maintain their private health insurance previously paid for by an employer. I applied for MediCal but was swiftly denied because our household income is too high by $200.

Although I will continue to have part of my regular income provided through long term disability insurance that does not provide for my continuing medical care. With 6 nieces and nephews living with us to provide a stable household for them, our income was already stretched beyond what their financial aid provides. My husband’s income is part time due to providing care for the youngest, a special needs child.

I am humbly asking for help to cover the $1,583 COBRA health insurance premium and other medical costs (copays) until I can return to work.

I will win this battle, I will get my life back, I will be grateful for your support.