Donate to Paula's Battle with Uterine Cancer

Hello, my name is Paula. I was recently diagnosed with cancer again for the second time. The first time was in December 2016, with Stage 3 Colon cancer, which my oncologist finally put in remission in January 2023! This past November 2024, while at work, I was rushed to the emergency room for severe lower right pain. After getting a CT body scan, the ER doctor and an OB/Gyn ordered an ultrasound. (I knew they discovered something.) When the results returned, it showed two polyps and blood and fluid in the uterus. The ER doctor referred me to the Women's Specialty Office. On December 3rd, 2024, Dr. Parks and I discussed the results from my ER visit and decided to move forward with having a D&C polyp removal. If the results came back positive for cancer again, I would be referred to Lemmen Holton Cancer & Hematology in Grand Rapids, MI. On December 23rd, the test results confirmed I had cancer again. On January 2nd, 2025, I met my new OB/GYN oncologist, Dr. Mae Zakhour, at Lemmen Holton, than told me I was diagnosed with an aggressive type of cancer called Uterine Sarcoma, and we had to move fast! During this time, I was so work, working when possible. My surgery for a hysterectomy was on January 13th, and chemotherapy would start shortly after. My job wanted me to do 'Volunteer Termination.' I'd never heard of that as my employment didn't qualify me for FMLA or short-term disability. Being diagnosed with cancer wasn't considered a life-changing event! While on LOA, my place of employment terminated me and I applied for social security disability, I'm currently behind on rent and facing eviction. The next few months are going to be difficult. I'm asking for financial assistance during this difficult time. I do know times are hard and have very little support. Any type of donation, big or small, will be greatly appreciated.

Ms. Paula

Update 03/18/25

Hello after two rounds of chemotherapy I’m managing there are good & bad days . There are days where I’m nauseous, barely eat but I keep hydrated. Good news is Corewell Health Social Worker/ True North were able to pay my back rent that was owed, I’m still awaiting a decision from Unemployment about my appeal also waiting to hear something from Social Security about benefits. I’m still asking for financial help during this fight against cancer. Thank you many blessings.

Update 5/28/25

Hello Thank you to those who have donated I really appreciate it from the bottom of my heart! Since the last update chemo treatments have been extremely difficult on 4/30/25 I was rushed to ER for low white blood count, UTI, serve chills temperature 100.8, admitted for 3 days in hospital making sure there wasn’t bacteria infection in my blood stream. I will say the care was excellent mainly loved how all the Doctors & nurses stayed in communication with each other and myself about my care. Round 5 side effects are horrible! Not being able to keep food down for 3/4 days, dizziness almost falling out while showering. Social Security has denied my disability I’m currently appealing my claim, this journey is not easy by far Please help out by any mean it will greatly appreciated Thank you so much God Bless