On March 5th, our lives changed forever. Our mom, Sandy, was rushed to the hospital after experiencing sudden and severe neurological symptoms. After a whirlwind of tests, doctors discovered a brain tumor. Within days, she underwent emergency brain surgery—a craniotomy performed at UPenn by Dr. Nduka Amankulor, a skilled and compassionate neurosurgeon. It was an incredibly frightening and life-altering moment for her and for all of us.

Although the surgery went well, our relief quickly turned to heartbreak. The biopsy confirmed that the tumor was a glioblastoma—an aggressive and fast-moving form of brain cancer.

Since then, our mom has been in the fight of her life. She spent weeks in post-operative rehabilitation, working every day to relearn how to walk and talk. With incredible effort and determination, she made progress—but the journey has been long and difficult. She recently completed six weeks of chemotherapy and proton therapy, which have taken a physical and emotional toll but are critical steps in her ongoing treatment.

The effects of the tumor, surgery, and treatment have changed her daily life in ways we never could have imagined. Even simple tasks are now incredibly challenging—things like showering, walking up stairs, and managing day-to-day activities all require significant effort and support.

Despite all of this, our mom has faced everything with strength and grace. Her spirit and resilience continue to inspire everyone around her. We’ve done everything we can to support her, including helping our parents move into a single-story home in Barnegat, close to her grandchildren and better suited to her needs.

But the financial burden from this journey has been overwhelming. The bills from surgery, hospitalization, rehab, and ongoing cancer treatment have added up quickly. Our parents have always been generous with their time, love, and support for others—now they need help.

We’re starting this fundraiser to help cover the medical debt and ease some of the financial pressure on our parents. Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a real difference. Your support will give our family the space to focus on what matters most: our mom’s healing and being together.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting us through this. We’re deeply grateful.

Even if you’re unable to donate, please keep our mom in your thoughts and prayers—your love and encouragement mean the world to us.

With love and gratitude,

Kyle & Lauren

on behalf of Sandy and our family