Easing Dawn's $10,000 Medical Burden

My good friend and colleague, Dawn Downing, is celebrating the end of her breast cancer treatment. Last fall, Dawn was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. Dawn has had a great care team at Duke Breast Cancer Clinic. Thanks to friends at Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Dawn had one of the best oncology surgeons at Duke and underwent surgery in December. From February through May, Dawn went through chemotherapy, and from June through July, Dawn went through radiation treatment. It is a relief that the treatment journey is over, but now the medical bills begin. The total for surgery, chemo, radiation, diagnostic, genetic testing and health insurance is $27,125 in out-of-pocket medical bills (Duke $10,625, Aetna $9,300 Oct-Dec, $7,200 Jan-May).

This is where we step in as friends, family, and colleagues, to give what we can to ease this part of the burden for Dawn, so that this part of her recovery journey she does not walk alone. A generous friend has pledged a $1,000 challenge match! Your donation will be doubled.

Dawn has always maintained a strong faith and knew she would get through this trial. Throughout, Dawn has been thankful for family, friends, a strong support system, and an excellent care team.

Dawn also encourages us all to schedule any medical appointments you've been putting off and advocate for your healthcare and treatment plans.