Hello friends and family in Christ.

My name is Skyler Heinze. I am 24 years old, and I am currently in my last semester of studying to become a math teacher.

Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with a malignant phyllodes tumor of the breast. Malignant phyllodes tumors are rare, aggressive cancers that grow rapidly.

I have since been blessed with the best surgeons that were able to remove the tumor along with some of my lymph nodes. After further testing, I was diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS). Li-Fraumeni syndrome is a genetic mutation that causes multiple types of cancers. It is said to occur in only 1 in 5,000 to 1 in 20,000 worldwide.

By age 30, 50% of patients diagnosed with LFS will develop some type of cancer, as I have. By age 60, the risk increases to about 80-90%.

Because of this diagnosis, I will now have to undergo a double mastectomy surgery to remove all my breast tissue. Along with the surgeries, the treatment plan for LFS patients is to screen for multiple types of cancers every 3 to 6 months. Every three months I will get blood work done and every six months I will get a full body MRI, colonoscopy, full body dermatology scan, etc. This is the process I will continue on for the rest of my life.

Finding out I have cancer at 24 years old has been no easy feat. I, of course, have had my fair share of medical expenses, as well as travel expenses as I have to travel to San Diego multiple times a week for appointments and treatments. I also have had to take time off from work to recover from surgery as I will have to do again soon once I receive my double mastectomy surgery.

It would mean the world to me if you were able to donate to me during this time. If you find yourself unable to give financially, I only ask that you please uplift me and my family in your prayers as I believe that to be the best medicine. The Lord is a faithful and mighty healer.

Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”