In Loving Memory of Beautiful Maria

My friend Maria Lopez has been diagnosed with gastric cancer.

Unfortunately, we found out this week that it has likely spread. What this means for Maria is a regimen of nine weeks of chemo, then surgery, then nine more weeks of chemo.

I met Maria when her son Jose, who is in eighth grade, joined our soccer team a few seasons ago. Maria also has two wonderful daughters. Marcia is currently in college studying criminal justice (and also working full-time) and Lidia is in sixth grade. Jose and Lidia are excellent students who are doing well in accelerated and gifted classes.

Maria has been unable to work for a few weeks. Her employer has been very understanding but I'm not sure exactly what her situation is and whether she is getting paid or not.

I do know, from personal experience, that even when you have insurance, which she thankfully does, those co-pays and co-insurance payments add up quickly.

I am helping them as much as I can with rides to appointments and for Jose, and by trying to help Marcia and her mom navigate the confusing maze that is healthcare. Imagine trying to do it when English is not your first language and many of the providers and office staff do not speak Spanish! It can be overwhelming, to say the least.

Maria is fortunate to work for a very generous and caring company that is rewarding her many years of service with support and love during this trying time.

I am hoping other friends of mine and hers would be interested in helping as well. I would love to be able to provide some financial relief so that Marcia can stay in school. So if you feel called to do so, I would be happy to accept any monetary donations anyone would care to provide. Every little bit helps.

Thanks for reading. Please pray for these wonderful people.

Michelle