Hi, Pastor Ken and Linda are raising funds for our dear friend, Elena.

After months of intense pain, multiple doctor visits, and a misdiagnosis, Elena (to some known as Helen) was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and possible stomach cancer. She immediately began three rounds of chemo to treat the ovarian cancer. During this time the tumor near her stomach was producing fluid which caused extreme pain. Elena had to go weekly to have the fluid drained from her abdomen.

A biopsy of this tumor was performed and she was diagnosed with advanced stage Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma, a very rare cancer. At first the doctors were not recommending chemo, because in her weakened state, she would be worse off. However, her health is currently stabilized enough for chemo to begin.

During the time of her treatment, Elena has had to spend a lot of time in the hospital, away from her husband, Sam, and their two young girls, Isabella (7 years) and Rosalina (19 months). As a mother who’s been told her days are numbered, of course, she wants nothing more than to be with her family. It has been very upsetting for all involved.

Elena is remaining optimistic and her faith in God is inspiring! She openly shares her faith with doctors and nurses and is trusting God in spite of the prognosis. In a time when she should need encouragement, she is encouraging those around her. It really is beautiful!

Because Sam takes care of the kids and spends as much time with Elena in the hospital as he can, he's had to cut back on his working hours. Elena has found a way to keep working from her hospital bed (she’s a super woman!) to continue to contribute to her family. Nonetheless, she has had to cut back significantly on the amount of work she is able to do. They have applied for disability however, benefits usually take about 5 months to be received, if they are even approved. In the mean time the bills are increasing while their income is significantly decreasing. Which means they could really use some help. Any amount is greatly appreciated. And please continue to pray for Elena’s health, and for Sam and the girls!