Karen’s Army

To all Karen’s friends and family I am starting A go fund me account for my friend Karen. Karen was diagnosed with cancer January 2020.  She has since been through 4 chemo sessions, a major surgery that removed 6 organs and then 2 more chemo sessions with 2 more to go still. She is one of the strongest and sweetest people I know but she could really use some help right now. I’m hoping this money  will help her pay her medical bills that are stacking up and hopefully get a very costly shot ($6,231.00) she needs once a month that insurance will not cover at all. She lost her car due to missing too much work, has parted with her job with American Airlines after 7 years and they recently raised her rent, yes during Covid... 

Here’s the story Karen posted in February:  

From Karen: 
I had a very hard time deciding if I should post this but ultimately decided I need to spread as much awareness about this terrible and silent disease as possible. If it saves just one life then it was worth opening up to y’all during my biggest challenge. 

A few weeks ago I was diagnosed with stage 3c ovarian cancer. I had no symptoms aside from missing a period here or there which can easily be chalked up to age, stress factors, diet, etc. Then a month ago my belly swelled with fluid to the size I was when I was 9 months pregnant with my incredible daughter, Serena. Who can I just say has been a rock for me through this along with the rest of my family and close circle. I was told I had ascites (which I have had drained twice via paracentesis but it’ll be 3 times a lady after next week) and that my CA125 marker was 3996. Normal range is under 35. Good times!

I’m so ready to fight and my prognosis is good. I have a fighting chance and I want other women to also. PLEASE WOMEN, GET CHECKED. Early detection saves lives. Go to the doctor no matter how scared you are. Have your CA125 marker and genetic testing done. MEN, please protect the women you love in your life by talking with them about it too.

I am so thankful for my support system who is helping me through this. I just got these effing awesome photos from my work family, they’re fighting with me today on my first day of chemo and I am so grateful for them!! We got this! ♥️

Message from Karen’s brother James:

Karen is my best friend. She has been that all my life. She is the most caring and generous person I know. If I ever needed help, she was there. If I need assurance, she is there. If I need to hear what I don’t want to hear, she will be a true friend and tell me the truth, the hard, courageous, uncomfortable truth. Karen is an amazing mother with a beautiful daughter. She’s always had my six, and now I’m trying my best to have hers. I fully believe she will win her fight with cancer but not without some help. I’m doing everything I can to provide help financially, emotionally, as well as being a fried. I love this beautiful woman with all my heart and want her to live a beautiful life that she fully deserves. I see so many stories of strangers randomly helping strangers and it melts my heart. If anyone can donate to help offset the financial situation, God bless you. I love you Karen Michelle, you are truly amazing in my eyes. You are not alone, ever. 

Message from Karen’s daughter Serena: 

My mom is both my hero and my best friend, most people say that but it’s true. My mom is the most selfless woman I know, without question she always offers to help others in need and has always been there for me. She is my person. She has always put others before her own needs with a smile on her face and “of course!” or “anytime!” She inspires me to be a better person everyday when I see how strong and positive she is facing this, and facing this during a global pandemic. I admire her confidence and beauty only growing stronger with each chemo treatment. Her generosity, kindness, and love for animals and her family are unmatchable. I think it’s time for some of that good Karma she’s been putting out her whole life to come back to her, anything helps and we both appreciate it. 

I know this is a very hard time for people right now, any donations would be amazing and if you can’t donate please share Karen‘s story. Thank you for reading this. ❤️ ~Jennifer