“You have cancer”

The words you never want to hear for yourself, friends or family. Unfortunately, Amy had to hear those same words just months after her 30th birthday this year.

In typical “Amy fashion” - she has taken the reigns and is working through one of the hardest times of her life. She continues to have the most positive spirit and doing everything in her power including self care, cold capping to maintain as much hair as she can, drinking plenty of fluids, etc. Not to mention, her laugh is still contagious as ever!

Amy works as a trauma ICU nurse, which is a very demanding job. She was hoping to work initially, though quickly realized the physical, mental and emotional burden was just too much to bear during this difficult time. She had to start expedited chemotherapy treatment just shortly after her diagnosis due to the cancer spreading to her muscle on repeat imaging.

Any donation to Amy during this challenging time is greatly appreciated. Funds will go towards her many medical expenses that are associated with a cancer diagnosis. Her short term disability through her employer ends in September 2024, and will likely be without a paycheck until she has recovered sufficiently from treatment to return at least part time (likely not until January 2025). Unfortunately, as a result she will also be paying for her own insurance during that time period, and we are all aware Cobra is expensive. Amy is also traveling for second opinions at Mayo Clinic, chemotherapy treatments, upcoming surgery (either lumpectomy, mastectomy or double mastectomy) and radiation. Let’s not forget expenses to just “live” like her mortgage payments, gas, groceries, etc.

Early on we talked about the idea of a Go Fund Me to assist, and Amy was quite hesitant at first. If you know Amy, she prefers being a strong, independent woman but being single and the only source of income has an emotional and financial toll during times like this. A cancer diagnosis takes a village and many have asked “how can I help?” One of the best ways to help is donating to relieve the stress of the financial burden and give back to this amazing person. Amy is very thankful for all your prayers, texts, cards, calls and continued support.

This is just a brief summary of the hardship Amy has gone through these past few months. If you are interested in more details of her journey, she has been posting regular updates of her progress, chemotherapy, side effects, etc through Caring Bridge.