Hi, my name is Mikayla!

Since the end of July, I’ve been undergoing chemotherapy for a rare cancer that developed after a miscarriage in May, called Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia. While my prognosis is relatively good, the journey so far has been incredibly difficult. I’ve been through two surgeries, six blood transfusions, & countless hours spent in hospital beds.

I was resistant to the first chemo drug, and today it was confirmed that the second drug is causing severe damage to my body. I guess this drug affects my RNA / Folic acid and is causing my body to attack itself, especially my mucus membranes. They are covered in lacerations and ulcers to the point that I can no longer eat solid food and have been in constant, debilitating pain. Because of this, my care team is moving me to another new treatment plan.. Another set of unknowns.

On top of the physical and emotional strain, life has thrown extra challenges our way, as it does. In the last two weeks alone, we had a tire blow and then we hit a deer.. When it rains it pours. This has been especially challenging because we rely on my vehicle to get to my chemo appointments, which will now be every other day in Sioux Falls — about an hour from home.

Because of my condition and us being in the midst of raising a 2 year old, Brandon (my fiancé) has been unable to work a consistent, stable job. We’ve managed as best we could, we’ve learned to lean into our faith and trust in Gods plan for us throughout this journey, but with the frequency of treatment, the increasing toll on my body, and the new expenses from our car troubles, we’ve reached a point where we are finally reaching out for help. It’s not easy to ask, and we know times are tight for everyone, especially with the holidays approaching, but if you feel able or called to support us.. anything makes a difference.❤️‍

“Give, and it will be given to you…” — Luke 6:38

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for any help you can offer — whether through donations, prayers, or simply sharing this chapter of our lives.