Overcoming Cancer at 18: Donate to Giana’s Journey

In late June, I discovered a large mass on my ovary that was later diagnosed as ovarian cancer — Stage IC1, Grade 3 immature teratoma with focal yolk sac tumor. Since then, I’ve undergone two surgeries and faced challenges I never imagined at 18 years old. Unfortunately, I will now need to begin chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from returning.

Before I can start treatment, I have to take the urgent step of preserving my eggs, since chemotherapy will take away my chance of having children in the future. This process is not only time-sensitive, but also financially overwhelming.

In a time where I was supposed to be starting my life and adulthood like every other high school graduate, I am instead faced with one of life’s most challenging battles. My world has been put on hold, but I am doing my best to stay hopeful and grateful for every blessing I have.

We are not asking out of greed, but out of hope and necessity — hope for a future where I cannot only overcome this, but also live the life I’ve always dreamed of. Every donation, share, or prayer means the world to me, and reminds me that I am not fighting alone.

— Giana Castillo ❤️ Thank you all!