Hello, my name is Cletis McConnell, and I am fighting an Aggressive form of Stage 3 cervical cancer.

My treatment has been far more intense than we originally expected. I am currently undergoing weekly 5-hour chemo and immunotherapy, daily radiation, and internal radiation procedures (including seed placement) that require long surgeries and recovery time. What was supposed to be a short recovery has turned into a long road…now estimated at 6–8 months, including recovery and rebuilding my strength.

I am a 62-year-old hairstylist of over 30 years and the sole owner of Coconuts N Colors at Sola Suites in the Arden Arcade area of Sacramento. My Grand Opening was in June 2024, on the 1-year anniversary my doctor found abnormal cells. Right now, my salon is closed because I’m not physically able to work, but still under a 2-year contract. The side effects have been overwhelming. I get winded easily, can’t stand for long, struggle to eat, and deal with severe pain and other complications. I was even hospitalized for a week after a serious blood pressure crisis and now take multiple medications daily just to manage treatment side effects.

Because of how sick and weak I’ve been from the treatments, I can’t safely stay home alone. I’ve been rotating between my daughter and sister for care and support. My daughter has been carrying most of the driving and caregiving, and my sister has helped by caring for my dog and giving me a place to rest when my daughter is exhausted. We’re still waiting for IHSS caregiver support to begin, and I’ve applied for grants, but many programs are currently full.

I’m raising funds to help cover:

• Rent and basic living expenses

• Salon suite lease payments and business bills while I’m unable to work

• Gas and transportation for treatment and caregiving

• Medications, recovery supplies, and caregiving needs

• Ongoing bills and essentials during treatment and recovery

I have one more surgical internal radiation procedure ahead, and then the focus will be recovery… but unfortunately the financial pressure doesn’t stop when treatment ends.

I don’t ask for help easily, but I truly need support right now. If you can donate, share, or keep me in your prayers, it means everything. God has carried me this far, and I’m trusting Him to carry me through the rest.

With gratitude,

Cletis McConnell Of Coconuts N Colors

- Your favorite stylist/colorist