My college roommate and dear friend Emily Maynard recently underwent major surgery on January 25 to remove a tumor the size of a grape from her spinal canal that was pushing up against her spinal cord. The tumor was discovered late last year after she had an MRI to figure out what was causing significant back pain. Her tumor was confirmed by pathology as a stage 2 cancerous tumor. The good news is if the surgeon removed everything there is very little chance it will return. She is currently waiting on the MRI results to see if radiation or any other treatment will be needed in the future.

After surgery, she spent a few days in ICU and the remainder of her time was spent doing intense rehab to prepare her for the next 3-6 months in a back brace with limited mobility. Thankfully, today (2/7) she was released to stay with family who will care for her for a short while.

If any of you know Emily, you know she is a fighter and loves her two boys dearly. If anyone can move on after an ordeal like this, I know she can.

If you are able, I am asking you to please donate to help her through this difficult season. She is currently living on disability which is only half of her usual income. Along with her usual bills, we know she will have medical bills from her surgery as well as future therapies and treatments.

I want this girl to feel the love of the people around her and focus on her recovery, so any help you can offer financially is appreciated more than you know. Every cent of this will go directly to her.

Please continue to pray over Emily's recovery and THANK YOU for any help you can offer!

Kelli