Danyell's prophylactic mastectomy journey

Hi, My name is Danyell Russell and I am having a prophylactic double mastectomy and reconstruction on 2/21/23. My mother passed away from breast cancer when I was 12 years old, and I have tested positive for genetic markers that make me more susceptible to breast cancer as well.

I created this GoFundMe in response to people asking how they could help support my family and me during this time.

My insurance will be covering the procedure itself, as it is considered a preventative and prophylactic procedure, however they will not be covering expenses such as the hospital stay and the operating room.

The procedure will also prevent me from working for several weeks as I recover. Most of you know that I am a physical therapist and I own my own business. All of my income depends on me working and seeing clients. If I don't work, I don't make money. So while this procedure is very important for me to have done, it may also become a significant financial burden for my family.

If you know me, you know that I am fiercely independent and have a REALLY hard time asking for help. Asking for help in this way makes me very uncomfortable, and I feel very icky about asking for donations in this way.

I appreciate all of the love and support I have already received from everyone. Please keep me, my family, and my care providers in your thoughts and prayers as we approach my surgery date!