As the shock is beginning to wear off, and our new reality of the “world as we know it” sets in… our family is reaching out and asking for your help. On July 21st, my sister Monica went to the ER seeking treatment for a shoulder pain so horrible that it would wake her up in the middle of the night… unable to be treated with over the counter medication. At this time she was also concerned she had little desire to eat and swelling was noted in her right upper abdominal quadrant. An abdominal CT scan indicated the need for further evaluation and better imaging that she would later receive at Southpointe Hospital.

Prior to her discharge from the hospital, there was great reason to believe that what we would be dealing with is the

treatment/management of a cancerous tumor originating in the tail of her pancreas that had spread to her liver and bone. Monica continued to work as a full time private caregiver up until 8/23/23, when diagnosis was confirmed. We were told that what has been identified is a rare form of pancreatic cancer (Amphicrine Carcinoma), and because of its metastasis, and highly aggressive nature… only 2 options were available… chemotherapy or hospice.

Monica has decided (with the support of her children and family) that she will proceed with Hospice. From 8/23, until today, Monica has lost all ability to walk, and has been receiving in-home hospice care provided (primarily) by her family, with the amazing support and assistance through Hospice of The Western Reserve out of Lakewood, Ohio. Because she has worked so long in private homes as a caregiver with over 20 years of experience, she was unable to obtain health or life insurance benefits (due to the outrageous cost).

Many of you have reached out asking how you can help/support Monica and our family during (unbelievably surreal) time. All funds received will go directly to Monica. She is currently listed as a “self-pay”. Any funds raised beyond what is needed for medical bills will be used by the family for funeral expenses and celebration of life.

Thank you all for your continued prayers of support, healing, and peace for Monica and our family.

With gratitude,

Monica, Carol (sister), Doug (brother), Michael “Mick” (son), William (son), Ally (dtr), and our extended family/families.