For those of you who do not know me, my name is Debbie Trageser and I would kindly appreciate your help. In 2007, I heard the words no one ever wants to hear: You have cancer and it has already spread to your bones. I was 48 years old at the time. I have Metastatic Paraganglioma – a rare form of adrenal neuroendocrine cancer. At the time I was diagnosed, I was told there was no treatment or cure – other than surgery to remove any tumors if possible. The good news is that this cancer is slow growing. I have been living with this cancer inside of me, with tumors all over my spine and hips, for almost 19 years. Today, I am 67 years old. I have changed my diet to align with anti-cancer nutrition and altered my exercise regime with the hopes of keeping my cancer at bay. “God helps those who help themselves,” right?

Fast forward to now:

I contacted Believe Big, a wonderful non-profit (believebig.org). It was there I learned about Mistletoe therapy, an integrative cancer approach to bridge the gap between conventional and complementary medicine. Mistletoe has many benefits; helping to diminish tumor-related pain and reducing the risk of tumor occurrence intrigued me the most. I was willing to “believe big” and give mistletoe a chance. After giving myself mistletoe injections subcutaneously for six months, I am happy to report my cancer markers are going down! That’s the first time in 19 years this has happened. Ever! To say I was encouraged is putting it mildly. Obviously, I want to continue with this treatment. In May 2026, I will have my cancer markers tested again and in August 2026, I will have another PET/CT scan to see if my tumors have reduced in size or even disappeared altogether.

Why I need your help:

Mistletoe therapy is not currently covered by insurance. (Mistletoe has completed an FDA phase 1 trial at Johns Hopkins and is working on phase 2). Since I’m retired and not collecting Social Security, I’m on a very limited budget. Any donation amount will be greatly appreciated! I want to be a mistletoe cancer success story. Please help me fight this cancer! Thank you in advance for your generosity and prayers.