She has many names: Debra, Debbie Lynn, OG Deb, Dynamite Deb, Shuffles, Friend, Daughter, Sister, Colleague, Aunt, Mom, and her personal favorite Mimi. She is many things to many people and as cliché as it sounds, to know her is to love her. On 2/14/22 she added Warrior and Fighter to her list of names, as she was diagnosed with Stage Three Ovarian Cancer.

The last few months have been filled with questions, fears, appointments, needle sticks, tears, infusions, hospitalizations, chemo, anemia, hair loss, outpatient surgery, exhaustion, injections, more appointments, loss of appetite, loss of pay, limited mobility, anxiety, treatment plans, and many lifestyle changes. All while still clinging to hope, faith, and the power of modern medicine. Now you see why she is a warrior! Cancer is ugly and the treatment is just as challenging. But our Warrior knows this life and all the people she has in it are beyond worth the fight. These grandchildren are worth it all and the time to make all the memories with those she loves most.

When you’ve been a giver and care taker all your life, it can be hard to ask for help. That’s my Mom, the bravest and most selfless person I know, but also the last one to ask for anything. So on her behalf and with her permission, I am asking! I am asking everyone who can, to rally behind her and stand with her during this fight for her life.

Between medical bills, loss of pay, and the need to maintain health benefits via Cobra, my Mom could use any help you can provide. Leaning into others can be hard, but the sense of community has healing powers of its own. Please consider helping, however you can. Help us to reduce the financial burden of cancer, so she can focus on the fight!

With all our love and gratitude,

The Eyster Family