Help Alaina Battle Her Medical Challenge

3/22/25: Alaina has had a rough few days and has another paracentesis scheduled for Monday. Huge blessing this week: NEGATIVE results of the biopsies! While cancer is ruled out in that area, she’s going through major discomfort, ongoing nausea and vomiting along with a long wait for the tips procedure.

Her strength as she’s is so tired, miserable, and finding sense of this chapter in her life is so admirable. She’s SO CUTE with her belly despite it being so uncomfortable. Keep praying for her and the relief she so deserves to get her to the procedure to alleviate the ongoing fluid.

She posted this on Facebook this week and what a positive testament of her current days:

I just wanna take this time to thank y’all again for the prayers!!!! Please keep them coming! I’ve been really struggling with the fluid on my abdomen- I get it drained every two weeks, and it’s no fun to say the least. In fact, I’m up now, just miserable- like, literally I look 9 months pregnant, and the fluid is always between 4.5-6 liters (that’s 2.2 pounds per liter). Too bad I don’t get a baby out of it, but strangers congratulate me- I say, ‘Thank you!’ It’s just easier that way. I do have a surgery to place a metal shunt in my liver on April 3- which the surgeon will be going down my jugular and into my liver to place a metal shunt- along with an ICU stay, and hopefully good drugs (bc it’s gonna be painful). Please pray for success of that surgery, and comfort prior. Oh yeah, and pray for my disability to go though in a timely manner (that’s a Christmas miracle in itself lol). Thank you and I love you all!

3/5/25: Update from Alaina - Hey, friends. Sorry for the delay in updating everyone, but as you can imagine things are very overwhelming, and many times hard to put into words. Thankfully, I have successfully stayed out of the hospital since January 23! I am, however, still struggling with massive amounts of fluid on my abdomen, causing me to have several procedures called a paracentesis (which is where they take a large spinal needle, insert a large catheter, and drain the free fluid off of my abdomen). I am having fluid drained every 2 weeks, anywhere between 4.5 liters to 6 liters each time (which is still not draining the abdomen completely). This fluid has created a softball size hernia, and is quite painful. Sometimes the only way to get through the pain is to remember how Jesus was tortured on the cross, and how I am made in his image- I am strong! Today it was confirmed that I will be having a TIPS procedure in the near future which will entail a metal shunt to be threaded down threw my jugular and into my liver to shunt blood and alleviate some of the portal hypertension, which is causing the fluid overload. I will be in the ICU after this surgery, but is 85-90% effective, so please pray for this surgery to be successful. I still weigh 100 pounds soaking wet, but I am eating so please pray for weight gain. I see my GI specialist tomorrow to check on the status of the ‘malignant neoplasm of the ampulla of vater’ to find out where we stand with that, so hopefully he can shed some light as to why this ‘cancerous tumor’ is still under my chief complaint list- prayers for clarity is much appreciated for this as well. In better news, my liver is responding well to the current treatment, and I have faith God is healing me! Oh, I also have an appointment with disability on March 11, so please pray I’m approved and it is expedited as Marty is working 7 days per week, and it’s really wearing him down. I feel so guilty- I would love to be able to contribute! God has definitely heard my cries, and all of your prayers, so thank you from the bottom of my heart! ❤️

1/29/25: Update from Alaina 1-28-2025

Hey, friends! Sorry for the delay, I just needed to digest all the information before sharing. I went to Mayo prematurely on January 6 to be seen in the emergency room as my Mayo G.I. doctor advised me to do. They were amazing by beginning treatment and admitting me to the hospital . My lab values were out of range, along with not eating by mouth, and major swelling of the abdomen, hips, legs, and feet. After my admission, they worked on stabilizing my lab values, inserting another feeding tube, and removing fluid from my abdomen via paracentesis. After receiving many bags of potassium, magnesium, albumin, and so much else, they were able to stabilize my values, which is necessary to apply those weighted values into a formula to calculate my MELD score to determine if a transplant is needed. The MELD score goes up to 35 and they put you on the list for transplant with a score of 27. The feeding tube was inserted to provide nutrition as I had an infection in my mouth and needed treatment to be able to eat. The paracentesis (to drain the free fluid in the abdominal cavity) was performed twice in a two weeks span, 4 liters removed the first time and 3 liters removed the second time. Unfortunately, the fluid comes back, so there may be more in my future, but hopefully not too often. Of course, I fell in the hospital going to the bathroom, injuring my left hip. No fracture was found but bruising to the bone. I couldn’t bear weight for days, but after stabilization, I was able to go to a rehabilitation center for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lymphedema therapy.- Just call me Grace. Oh, and the best thing about the rehab is I could walk and fart at the same time, and no one cared because my company was literally 75 and older.

On January 23, I met with the transplant doctor, Dr. Patel. He informed me that my MELD score had gone from a 28 to a 16. While the MELD score fluctuates, it was stable at a 16 upon leaving Jacksonville. So, I was relieved as I’m not strong enough for a transplant this time. In other amazing news, I was also able to get the feeding tube removed, and now eating by mouth again- trying to gain my fat girl status back! lol. The transplant doctor informed me that I do have severe liver disease and symptom management was the only thing we could do at this time. He plans to reevaluate me every three months for the possible need of a transplant along with scans for cancer as I am very high risk. He says the liver disease was from a few different factors, one being a genetic component that caused an inflammation response in my liver, and my liver was unable to process effectively, so it lead to scarring, and decompensation. He described it as almost an autoimmune disorder where my body attacks the liver (along with the organs surrounding the liver. Dr. Patel also said I would have good days (which may never be a normal good day- but good for me) and bad days. So, I’m to listen to my body and respond accordingly. I would eventually plateau on improving, and then it would go downhill fast after that; However, he did not have a prognosis or timeframe. He did insist on keeping appointments with our Specialist in town to monitor me closely, and to utilize Palliative Care.

There are many things I left out that were discouraging, but I am choosing not to focus on those things, because know in my heart God can and will heal me! I also had a divine intervention that showed me another situation that was much worse. At that moment, I realized I have been blessed, given mercy, been set free- literally. So, I plan to tell the world about how good God is ALL THE TIME. Now, I can use this big mouth, and projecting voice to share God’s mercy! After my vision, my entire perspective has changed completely. I will share my testimony as soon as I can put all of those thoughts together. I already have a couple invitations to speak on my journey, and can’t wait to be the vehicle God uses to bring others to the Lord! See, y’all, there was always a need for my loud mouth, brutal honesty, and projecting voice! lol. Giving up has never been an option, and I feel better than ever. There is ALWAYS something worse!!!!

Now, let me be clear, I’m not out of the woods, so please continue to pray, but I am no longer blindly navigating this disease. I know the prayers we have said together have gone straight to God’s ears, and I thank each and everyone for that! Also, the donations have been, and continue to be a huge help with our day to day living, so a huge thank you for your generosity. Last, but not least, surprise gifts from you all have warmed my heart, and I thank you for your kindness! Also, thank you for the calls, texts, and messages- just bear with me as I get overwhelmed and cannot respond promptly. I think this summarizes the last few weeks adequately, and I hope it has blessed you all to see what a major role you have played in my healing. I’ll leave y’all with a declaration of- I drink the blood of Jesus, I eat the flesh of Jesus, and I soak in the blood of Jesus, because He is the star of the ‘show’- not me. I love you all so much!

info from Kim:

Alaina has provided an update and you will laugh…..and cry! There’s been so much on her and I’m so proud of how far she’s come the past few months. With her consent, I am adding a few things to consider as you all follow along her journey.

1. We’ve seen good days and bad days, this battle is truly a battle. Alaina cannot drive. She feels she’s lost a lot of her independence. With the kids at college and/or high school and Marty having to work, she’s alone most days. Let’s send her encouragement to her home since she’s not at Mayo any longer. It would be so fun for her to get more little surprises from all of us. (Today she had her mom, sister, and niece take her out and it was followed by what I call kimmi-dash which is when I put a surprise on her porch). I don’t want to put her address on here but you can text me at [phone redacted] or IM me on FB. It’s the little things that mean so much.

2. She needs each and every one of you to share her GFM. Her medical bills are literally astronomical and that is after insurance pays. The decision on whether to return to Mayo every three months is truly dependent on travel expenses being covered. The more of us sharing, the more eyes we get on her story. Prayers for health and giving to lessen the financial burden on her and her family are crucial. Share, share, share; it’s so important for our friend!

3. She needs disability approved. It’s a long process but she’s not been able to work in a while. Over six months. She is hopeful they’ll approve sooner than later but with their office being bombarded with applicants, she can’t even get anyone on the phone. If anyone knows anyone with the social security office, please let me or her know who she can contact directly.

1/25/25: this is Kim, I wanted to update everyone on Alaina. I know you all have been praying for her and expect to hear something. I wish I had the words……

She had the consult on Thursday and was discharged from rehab. She is back home now which she missed so much. ❤️

She has a lot to process and will

provide an update when she is ready to share everything. I’ll update everyone as soon as she gives the green light.

We love you all for your continued thoughts and prayers for Alaina.

1/20/25: this is Kim, I have another great report! Alaina is tolerating therapy well and sounds the best she’s sounded in weeks :) Swelling remains a concern and a priority with her care. She has the transplant consult on Thursday at Mayo. The address for the rehab facility is

12645 Salina Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32246 if you want to send cards, etc there. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers as she works hard to stay strong for next steps. We look forward to bringing good news Thursday regarding a transplant for her. ❤️Thank you for remaining so dedicated to Alaina’s journey and recovery! She truly is positive and strong because all of you behind her praying her through it. ❤️

1/17/25: this is Kim, Let me just tell you what all your prayers have done for Alaina Holroyd Goss! Today she had 3 liters of fluid removed, sounds soooo much better and more like herself, plus got discharged from the Mayo Clinic to the Reunion Rehab Hospital! (This was discussed earlier but this came out of no where for today.) This is an amazing sign she was doing well enough today to go to rehab . She’s less than five miles from Mayo if she needs urgent needs addressed. Yesterday was full of fear and today was much brighter. Thank you all for the love and prayers; she’s definitely feeling it from afar and yay!!!!

1/16/25: this is Kim, Alaina fell this morning and ok. She’s very weak and malnourished along with pain and swelling from the stomach to the feet. The CT didn’t show a fracture from the fall so that was a blessing! As much as I want to deliver more good news, I’m afraid I have to provide the bitter truth. Things are progressively worsening. It’s heartbreaking to hear the fear in her voice and know there isn’t a thing we can do from afar pray and leave it in God’s hands. She's leaning on God as well with so much indifference from her medical team. She’s such a vibrant and beautiful person that needs us more than ever to lift her spirits and keep her in our prayers. Please send cards, please tell your church families to pray for her too.

Oh, and the Mayo Clinic gift shop will deliver something to her for you so there’s that….her new room number is 750 I think….

until we know more, thank you!

1/15/25: this is Kim, Alaina is still at the Mayo Clinic and undergoing testing daily. I wish we knew more but answers and updates are few right now.

Continue praying for her and the team there to uncover the best plan for her!

1/13/25: this is Kim, Alaina loved all the dogs pics too! She misses her Maple so much plus all her friends and family. I wish I could update better news but the fluid is back in her abdomen. They are truly addressing one acute problem after another. Alaina is very sick but in a good place. She finds comfort in knowing she’s there with Mayo monitoring her. As of now, there still isn’t a plan for discharge to rehab. She’s truly taking it day by day and encouraged by our messages, calls, and cards. Keep praying for her and I’ll update more if a plan is made or anything changes. She loves everyone that is rooting for her and I thank you so much!

1/11/25: this is Kim, Alaina has loved every one of the snow pics you guys sent! Thank you for sending. The first thing she said to me today was “I’m not feeling good at all today”. I was so bummed because I wanted to hear she was on the upswing and ready to go shopping! If you know her, she doesn’t say she feels badly unless it’s truly rough. Keeping fighting my friend, we have shopping to do ;)

She’s had magnesium, albumin,

and electrolyte therapy today. Case mgt has discussed Reunion rehabilitation hospital with her as a plan once her acute needs are resolved. It’s local to the Mayo Clinic and would afford her the ability to return there quickly if needed. There has not been any discussion to date regarding liver transplant and her 1/23/25 consult remains scheduled.

Keep her on your mind and in your prayers! She’s fighting to be medically stable and stronger; that’s our Girl!!!!

I’ll update if the address changes for cards, etc.

1/10/25: this is Kim, Alaina Holroyd Goss is fighting so hard but I hear her voice and it’s so very weak. She was able to talk some today which was a good indication her hemoglobin had come up some from the transfusion ❤️

☃️she’s asking for snow pics so message

Me with yours! ☃️she shared this pic of her Bible study she’s been able to do during alert times. There is still no plan while they continue treating what is acutely so imperative to address. Keep up the prayers! Send her encouragement! Thank you, your support and love means the world to her.

Her room number is 358 at Mayo Clinic 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL. 32224.

1/9/25: this is Kim, Alaina had to have another blood transfusion today. She’s very weak and that is all I really know to share today. She got the feeding tube yesterday. I still don’t have a room number to share but if you want to mail her something, send it to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville Florida and I’m sure they’ll get it to her. Keep praying for Alaina and thank you for ongoing

thoughts and prayers. I’ll update once I know more from Alaina.

1/7/25: this is Kim. Alaina is ok but really being put through it. Her exact words were “Full of fun. In and out catheters, draining fluid, loads of fun- party animal”. Gotta love her ongoing humor during such a trying time!

They drained 3.9 liters of fluid off today. She will be getting a feeding tube. Once she has a room that won’t change for a little bit, I’ll update with address and room number if anyone wants to send something. She could really use the encouragement being there alone. Thank you all and keep praying for Alaina!

1/6/25: this is Kim, Alaina fell early this morning. She’s ok but bruised hip and ribs. With multiple factors playing a role, she was advised to come to the Mayo Clinic ER. Big thank you to grandma Kate for getting her to Florida. She’s malnourished, weak, and battling pain, nausea, and swelling. Please pray for guidance of the team at Mayo to help Alaina. She’s being admitted and I’ll update when I can.

1/5/24: I’m so happy to share Alaina’s own update because she had the strength to write it and her words paint a vivid picture. To so many praying for her, thank you and her update is below.

Update from Alaina

Hey friends, and prayer warriors alike! Here is the latest update all the way down to some brutal emotions during this trying time.

Medical speaking, I am home from the hospital after receiving blood, having an EGD, and being monitored. Thank you for the prayers with the blood transfusion. My hemoglobin was raised from 5 to 8.6 with just one unit, so it definitely did the trick. Also, no adverse reactions! While my hemoglobin is obviously still very low, it is stable, so I am thankful for that. The EGD did not reveal the origin of the bleed, because I was not actively bleeding at the time of the procedure, so we can only assume where the blood was coming from. Lastly, I am so thankful for the inpatient monitoring as I have been scared to go to sleep in fear I will not wake up. So, there is peace of mind knowing someone is watching me. I have another procedure booked from this coming Friday, January 10, but Mayo is working hard to try and get me in to do the procedure there- so pray for that to work out. Unfortunately, only three surgeons are able to do this procedure, so it does make it harder to work in. I am still meeting with the transplant team on January 23, so I pray they have a plan to make this nightmare end.

Physically, I am still so thin, but swollen (thank the Lord for IV Lasix), and very fragile. It, honestly, terrifies me to look in the mirror. I don’t recognize the person staring back at me. She is weak and withering away. She is defeated and sad. She is not me.

Mentally and emotionally, I am heartbroken. I try to be positive and thank God for the curve balls, but I’m striking out left and right. It would be fitting that my Bible study this morning had me in the book of Job. I won’t go into all my emotions as I know that is not what you all signed up for- I’ll just ask for specific prayers. Please pray for:

- Fear to have no place in my life

- Peace and comfort

- Security as I am barely keeping my head above water in all aspects of life

- Marty and his health. Many of you don’t know that Marty works 7 days per week to keep this family going, along with taking care of me. He is unable to go to the hospital, much less stay, as his responsibilities are so great. So please pray I am not an added burden to his weariness.

- Cole, Lillie, Asher, and Pearson. Praying for peace and comfort as my condition is weighing on them, and they should be worry free, and enjoying their new found freedoms.

- My handful of friends who have offered to take me to the hospital and stay. Along with helping in any way possible. Pray they continue to offer a shoulder to cry on, and stand by me.

- My mom as she is having hip surgery this week, and will need a lot of attention in which I am unable to provide. Pray this surgery will be a ‘breeze’ for her.

I feel like I could go on and on with the requests of prayers, but I will leave you with the ones above. I want to be clear, I am not sharing these things to receive pity. I just think it’s important to allow you to see a snapshot into this reality of what is a personal hell. While writing this, I just heard God say, ‘The battle has been won’. Oh, sweet Jesus, I am ready for my victory lap.

Last but certainly not least….. THANK YOU to all who have donated, gifted, and prayed in the last few months! Y’all have been more of a blessing than you know!

1/4/24: Update: internal bleeding resolved and getting to go home! Answered prayer! Pain, swelling, appetite with ability to maintain those calories are all touch and go but she’s rocking it like a pro. Im so proud of her and her ability to adapt with so much coming at her. She has an appt here on 1/10/24 and then on 1/23/24 with the transplant team at Mayo. Please consider giving with the upcoming travel expenses as the three oldest are headed to college next week. Continue praying her through this up and down journey that so many would have already given up on! Love you girl and so proud of you!!!

this is Kim, Alaina Holroyd Goss updates are few because we know so little. Alaina is very sick. Please keep her in your prayers this morning. Alaina appreciates your continued support!

I’ll share more once we know more.

12/31/24: this is Kim, Alaina Holroyd Goss tolerated the transfusion well; she actually slept through it . Thank you for the prayers yesterday! Once her hemoglobin stabilizes, the plan is for them to go in and find where the bleeding is coming from to stop it. For now, there is no day/time for said surgery. (It was supposed to be early this morning but coordination is delayed due to poor communication or indecisiveness between her care teams here and there) Keep the prayers coming for her to get back on track and healthy for the next steps.

Thank you for keeping her in your thoughts and prayers!

12/30/24: this is Kim, Alaina Holroyd Goss is in ICU. She’s hemorrhaging and her hemoglobin was about 5 when she got to the hospital. She will be having a blood transfusion ASAP (type and crossing now). Please pray this goes well; she’s never had one and we don’t need any reactions or kinks. We also need to pray for the guidance of local hospital with Mayo to coordinate next steps.

I’ll update when I can, I’m at work. She loves all of you!

12/27/24: Update from Alaina -

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! I sure did! Why? Well, I made it through Christmas without a hospital admission by the skin of my teeth – because I did have two ER visits, but I made it the first ER visit was due to vomiting blood (coffee, ground emesis) and it was pouring out of my feeding tube (sorry for those details, it is gross). They checked my hemoglobin and it was “stable “at 8.2, which is low, but they gave me a G.I. cocktail with a prescription and sent me home. I’m scheduled for another EGD on January 10 with gastroenterology, so we will know then if it’s an active bleed, the second visit was for massive swelling. I had gained 35+ pounds and fluid retention and the circulation was being cut off to my toes. They gave me IV Lasix (which works like a charm) and sent me home. Total success! Oh, and I pulled my feeding tube out. I know I’m a rebel, but I really believe the feeding tube is where my sepsis originated from the other week so I pulled that sucker out! I think it at least served one purpose by allowing for a safe GIS. I’m eating a little. It’s just hard but I try to push through. I’m still weak and frail. I fell again this week and Lillie had to pick me up off the floor. Ya know, I can’t lose my nursing home status so it had to be done. I also have two wounds so it’s safe to say my 97+ year old grandmother is in better shape than I.

OK, now on why Christmas was a blessing… Christmas Eve, we went to my mom and dad‘s. Marty and myself with all my beautiful babies along with my sister, Josh, Evie, and my grandma Kate. We had a fun night full of laughs. Everyone seem to have a good time and even though I was exhausted, it was good for the soul. One of my favorite moments is my niece Evie, the innocent and excitement of this magical holiday is something I miss. Which led me to one thought, I am certain when the good Lord brings me home all of the innocence, pureness, and excitement will return. Can you imagine? What a birthday party that will be! I would like to keep that imagination for longer, of course, but not all is in with is within my control.

Christmas day was also amazing. All of the kids were here and actually loved all the things they got for Christmas both a rare occurrences I ordered a feast from honeybaked ham which they tore up. With that being said thank you to those who donated because they provided a hot great meal for my family so thank you again! Also, I know the prayers got me through this holiday, I pray to make it to Pearson‘s birthday January 3 with no hospital admissions. But one day at a time, oh, and some of y’all are as addicted to Amazon as I am I have gotten so many things! It’s so thoughtful to send something that no one expects thank you to all of you. Who are so selfless during this busy season.

On my heart to add a few things I’m learning throughout this process. I want to share…

1- Life is hard. Lower your expectations or you will likely be disappointed if you don’t have a high expectations, you will find excitement in those things that you would not otherwise and you won’t be upset when it’s a flop.

2- Forgiveness, starting with yourself. I’m still working on this one. I have so many regrets. It’s hard to do this, but on the other hand, no one or thing has ever disheartened me more than I have myself. So, forgiving others is pretty easy. Just remember the worst lies are the ones we tell ourselves.

3- what others think of you is none of your business. Don’t let the fact that you have no make up on and a moomoo to stop you from going to the Dollar General. Honestly, it’s about humility, and God has really put the hammer down on this one for me. You do you, no matter what that looks like.

4- love one another. Love is an necessity, just like food, shelter and water. You can also forgive and love someone from a distance. They do not have to be in your circle for you to do this.

With all that being said, I love each and everyone of you! I accept you for you, your authentic self!

12/21/24: Raw update from Alaina-

Hey, friends! Can y’all believe Christmas is only four days away? I certainly can’t! To be honest, I don’t know the day of the week most days, much less the actual date, so this holiday just came out of nowhere for me. Talk about a roller coaster?!

As I sit quietly (yes, I can be quiet), admiring my Christmas tree, I wonder…. Will this be my last Christmas here on earth? I know this sounds morbid, but these are the intrusive thoughts that go through my mind every minute of every day. I know none of us are promised tomorrow, however, under my current circumstances is hard not to wonder. Even though I am physically, mentally, emotionally, exhausted, my brain doesn’t seem to take a break from asking questions like… Will I be able to stay out of the hospital long enough to enjoy Christmas? Will my children remember the last gift I got them? The last movie we watched? The last meal I cooked? The last song we sang together? Or, will they remember me looking sallow and sick? The feeding tube? Helping me up the stairs? Picking me up off the floor after falling? Assisting me to the bathroom? I mean, I can sit here all day and still have no answers to these random questions but, I tried very hard to stay away from the uncertainty, and focus on fighting. OK, pity party over.

I think in the last update Kim shared. I just gotten out of the hospital. Kim has been so amazing with keeping y’all updated with the approved and accurate information- so a huge THANK YOU to her! I can’t remember if I shared that I got baptized in the hospital on December 12! It was so special, and I am so blessed to have Pastor Ron from Saint Andrews Methodist Church in Easley for coming to Saint Francis Hospital with my step grandma, Kate, to do something I will cherish forever! After being discharged, I came home in “panic mode” with no gifts for Christmas. I knew it was “crunch time”, so my bright idea….. To go shopping the goal was 2-3 stores). With much hesitation, Kim came and picked me up and lo and behold, the first store we walked out of, I fell in the parking lot. I was using my walker, but my legs just gave out. So, if you happened to see a frail looking woman rolling in a parking lot like a ninja, no need to wonder who that was, it was me- just as graceful, as can be. . Needless to say, I completed my shopping online.

I believe in the last update it was mentioned that I am being followed by palliative care. The nurse practitioner is so nice, and their plans for making me comfortable are effective. A huge hurdle right now is the insane swelling in my feet, legs and hips. It is definitely +4 pitting edema, and feels as though I have rubber bands wrapped around every inch of my legs. Sometimes, I can’t even bear weight it’s so tight and painful. Other than that, everything else is still the same.

Request- Please continue to pray for healing as I navigate this unfamiliar terrain.

Again, THANK YOU to everyone who is praying, sharing my story, donating, and more. Without the support of all of you, this would be a different ball game. I LOVE each of YOU for being YOU, and sharing your heart with me, as I share mine with you. I pray each of you has a

MERRY CHRISTMAS and a safe New Year!!!

12/14/24: This is Kim and Alaina is back at home and glad to be out of the hospital. She felt like doing some Christmas decorating today and spent time with family. Cole came over and pulled all the Christmas stuff out and put the tree up so that she could direct them on how to decorate….all while she played with her new gifts and watched Christmas movies. It’s so cute when something is delivered off her wish list because you can hear the excitement in her voice. She plans to make Christmas magical by starting out with her first shopping outing tomorrow. NOTHING stops this woman so With the tube feedings, swelling, pain, walking with a walker, etc…. It will be challenging but worth it! Maple and I will be with her, so if you see us out come say ‘Hey’. Again, thank you for the donations, gifts, and most importantly, the prayers. Let’s keep going strong to help her fight through this uphill battle.

Now for the medical part of this journey:

The local hospital did a lot to help and a lot couldn’t be done that will need to be addressed at the Mayo Clinic. Alaina was septic on admission. She received 9 bags of potassium, 4 of magnesium, 2 of albumin, vancomycin, zosyn, augmentin, fluids, and, more over the course of four days. She continues tube feedings and fighting blindly everyday because so much is in limbo. She has palliative care starting this coming week which is NOT hospice. She will be able to continue seeking medical treatment and answers while on palliative care. She is hopeful she can stay home and not need to return to the hospital with the help of the palliative care team.

Thank you again for your continued prayers and I’ll update again and information is available. Your generosity is helping so much so Alaina can focus on her health.

12/11/24 pm: It’s Kim with an approved update from Alaina. Alaina’s admission to the hospital last night was prompted by a fever spike of 103, began vomiting blood, was confused and lethargic. I was fortunate to be able to be with her at this time. Her labs were making her wacky, and they discovered she is septic, as well as a discovery of a 3cm mass behind the right, upper clavicle. This is COMPLETELY new. The mass needs more investigation per the medical team. I know we prayed one mass away- we need to do it again! The transplant team is trying so hard to get Alaina stronger for her long road ahead. For now, she’s undergoing numerous tests here while coordinating with the Mayo Clinic in Florida. She’s still cracking jokes, so not to worry; she’s so admirably positive between her tears of exhaustion..

As Christmas approaches, I’ll do my very best to update as information is available and ok with Alaina to share on gofundme. First, pray Alaina is able to spend Christmas with her loving family (Remember , she spent Thanksgiving alone in the hospital at Mayo). Secondly, as Alaina continues this uphill battle, this has put a significant emotional, physical, and financial strain on the family. Her role as mom is to ensure Christmas is perfect….as moms, we all know how unavailable she must feel being so sick, wanting to make this holiday special at the same time. This Christmas, we have the opportunity to adopt her family; a family we know and love. If you are planning on adopting a family from an ‘angel tree’, please make it Alaina’s. Every little bit would help meet their financial needs and Christmas for their kids. No matter how small, we can make a significant difference and bring a little relief to Alaina and her family this Christmas. Your generosity, prayers, and kindness thus far is immeasurable and we thank you! Thank you for considering adopting this family. Your support truly means the world to Alaina.

12/11/24: Alaina has been in the ER twice since returning home from Mayo last Friday. She was admitted last night. Please keep her in your prayers!

12/7/24 Alaina’s Amazon wish list for surprises:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/HWHGWG05VMPW?ref_=wl_share

12/6/24 from Alaina:

For I’m finally home and semi-settled. Learning a new lifestyle is very challenging, but I tell myself, ‘Has anything worth having been easy?’ No, it hasn’t- perfect example- having children! Challenging, but worth it ALL! So, I’m trying so hard to keep my spirits up. Have you ever been surrounded by so many people, but feel so lonely? It’s very surreal. So, with that being said, if you feel lonely- call me, we can be lonely together. My goal is to laugh the day away. It doesn’t always work but, I sure try. I have also found great comfort in the Lord! So, let’s continue to pray together- for you, for me, for world domination. LOL Otherwise, medically speaking Home Health and Palliative Care have been scheduled to join my interdisciplinary team for Saturday and Monday. I want to be clear… Palliative Care is NOT HOSPICE. Palliative Care is only to bridge the gap making me as comfortable as possible only to keep me comfortable until my transplant consult. Palliative care does NOT require any treatment to be stopped or put a ‘timeline’ on life expectancy. It’s actually a wonderful service that provides supplies, medications, around the clock access to nurses on call, etc. The reality is I am only 100 pounds, I am being fed by a tube, walking with a walker- so basically I’m living like someone in a nursing home. I’m very weak, and humiliated; However, still very spicy and bossy (according to Marty) LOL In all seriousness, this is the hardest thing I’ve ever endured, and I know it will get worse before it gets better. Whether God delivers me and takes me home, or delivers me to share my testimony with the world, I’m content with whatever that looks like. It’s hard to get in that head space, ya know? I do wanna say, THANK YOU for your patience in receiving updates. I know many of you have been following diligently. I, as well as my family, are so overwhelmed and humbled by all the thoughts, prayers, and donations. Also, if you donated, please send me a pm of your address, please. I would like to send out just a little something to brighten your day, as you have mine! It is nothing of monetary value- just a sincere thank you. I love you all!!!! Your support is something I could never repay! Andddddd, I literally crapped my pants today with no warning- so - yeah, total nursing home status.

12/5/24 Alaina’s post:

Hey. This is Alaina, not one of her fabulous friends. I am making this post myself this time to update everyone who’s been praying for me and is invested. The picture that will be posted may be a trigger warning for others but this is the realest you’ll ever see me. All of you know me and know I wouldn’t post a picture of me without being true to myself and to you all. I’m going to give you the latest update and that is- I have been discharged from the Mayo Clinic to home

With home health and will return to the Mayo Clinic January 23 for a liver transplant consult. Please do not ask me a lot about it because I don’t know a lot about it per the little information I received. Many have asked how to help…..I want to thank all my family and friends who’ve surrounded me with encouraging things and words. I wanna thank kim Bostic Brock for starting and go fund me account which has been very helpful. I along

With a few others will

Update you on progress as it comes. Kim will update the gofundme and post my Amazon wish list as suggested by others to send me surprises. People have been asking what they can do and your thoughts and prayers are more than enough,

The extras are nice but not required. Prayers of strength and fighting, and you know just the little daily things in life that make me happy and are much needed right now.

this is a picture of what I look like today just before discharge andTo simplify information;

All updates will be either by my mom or by way of the gofundme. This picture will tell more than I can explain. Feel free to share and post anything at this point I have no shame. Keep those prayers for strength and peace, I love you all so very much.

12/5/24 We all love you Alaina and keep fighting!

12/5/24 update from bestie Amy:

Many have been asking me for an update on Alaina. As of today they are waiting on biopsy results to determine anything forward. She has a NG tube feeding her 24/7. Alaina needs all the prayers and positive thoughts we can give her! If you can donate anything it will be graciously appreciated, and if not just please keep her in your prayers! Even just a kind word would help Alaina to keep her spirit up!!! Thank you all from my heart and soul! ❤️

12/2/24 from Alaina’s mom :

Update on Alaina Holroyd Goss

It is hard to update when you have numerous "Teams" working on your case. So many things are said, and some speculate based on their knowledge. So, here is what I know...

#1 Alaina is unable to digest food

#2 She was put on a feeding tube on 12/01

#3 Alaina will have a liver biopsy this afternoon. It will be run through her carotid artery

#4 The diagnosis has not been determined yet, however, the term, Acute Cholestatic Liver Disease has been MENTIONED. (we still do not know)

#5 Alaina had a gastric bypass about 9 years ago. She lost quite a bit of weight. Losing a great amount of weight causes fatty liver disease

#6 Alaina has lost 50 lbs since August, due to her gastrointestinal tumor which can also add to fatty liver disease (more weight loss). Her liver is 54% fatty, so that number should be 5.

#7 We are still waiting on tissue that was taken days ago

#8 I would also like to add that St Francis did not tell us about the mass in the bile duct until someone slipped up and mentioned it! The doctor at St Francis tried twice in separate surgeries to remove the mass without success! His plan was to try again around Jan 11th. He left her in the hospital while he went on vacation and did not leave a plan to feed her. More weight loss!

#9 The surgeon at Mayo saw the MRI results from St Francis and after their testing, it appeared smaller. Now, non-existent!

#10 MY FRIENDS, THAT IS THE POWER OF PRAYER!

Please keep Alaina in your prayers. She is going through a challenging time.

11/30/24 I’ve just spoken Alaina Holroyd Goss and her mom; she’s going back into surgery today. There was no visual mass during surgery two days ago yet imaging showed a mass. If the mass has in fact disappeared, we can all thank the Good Lord! There was a lot of swelling and the surgical team couldn’t really get where they needed to see. She sounds so much better than yesterday and it was good to hear some pep back in her voice!

Please keep her in your prayers today as you cheer for the Clemson tigers or those Gamecocks.

Alaina asked that I update from her mom post as her mom is at bedside and it reads as follows:

Update on Alaina

Sorry for not updating sooner! I needed more information in order to share what we know.

Alaina is sick, very sick. I’m not going to go into details because it would be like writing a book!Here’s what we are waiting on today…

◦ Results from all tissue that was “brushed” around bile duct

◦ Feeding tube to be put in (Alaina is not receiving any nutrients from her food, throws up everything she eats)

◦ Extensive biopsies on her liver (possible need for liver transplant)

11/28/24 I’ve just spoken with Alaina and it was so good to hear her voice! We DO NOT have results from the surgery. Keep her in your prayers. I’ll update once she talks to the surgeon and we know more.

11/27/24 7:58pm Super great update and answered prayer! She’s out of surgery and ok! Liver stenosis and mass possibly from that but we are waiting for results. Food isn’t digesting properly and there will be next steps we aren’t sure of yet. This is hallelujamazing! Thank you to all who prayed her through this today and will update next steps.

Alaina Holroyd Goss is still in surgery, please pray for her and the surgical team! I’m updating information on the gofundme and will do my best to keep it updated.

11/27/24 7:22pm Alaina is still in surgery and there is no update. Please continue to pray for her and the surgeons.

11/27/24 Alaina is having surgery at 1pm to try and biopsy the mass to form a next step. She will have an NG tube placed afterwards. Please let’s pray her through this surgery and for the best! I’ll update when more information is given to me. Thank you all the love, support, and prayers! Alaina loves you all!

11/26/24 pm update from Amy Cain who is with her…

This is an update on Alaina as I am here at Mayo Hospital with her and she asked me to keep all her friends and family updated. Alaina met with the Oncology Surgeons, they have discussed cancer, possible liver transplant and surgeries. They still do not have all the answers but have discussed the best case scenario to the worst case scenario. With all the information gathered so far, it looks closer to worst, but Jesus is a healer and miracle worker and she will fight hard! Please continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers! Alaina says she loves and appreciates you all! ❤️

11/26/24 Alaina is in good hands at the Mayo Clinic. She’s having to have antibiotics due to being borderline septic at admission. Also, more labs and CT. Please pray for her strength to endure surgery when it can be done. She will need a liver transplant once the surgery is successful. Her parents are with her and her friend Amy. Of course, her new Maple

is by her side as well. This update may sound matter of fact but I only want to state facts, it’s very hard for me to post at all. She’s such a vibrant “spicy” one and it’s truly hard for her and everyone to see her go through this pain and journey. I’m asking for prayers from everyone.

11/26/24 Alaina is at the Mayo Clinic for the plan appointment and has been admitted. I’ll update as information becomes available.

11/24/24 Here’s her post today to update this thread:

UPDATE- I was at the Mayo Clinic on Thursday of this week. I had extensive testing- I’ve written 5 pages of abnormal results. I was scheduled to go back to Mayo on Dec 2. The oncology surgeon called and says she needs to see me sooner. Therefore, I’m leaving on Monday to meet with her first thing in the morning, Tuesday. I’m so thankful for her urgent need to see me, but it tells an unlying story about my results. If you know me, you know I’m notorious for researching. Results do not look good, but I will NOT lay down and die. I WILL NOT give up. I WILL thank Jesus for his healing, because, ANY weapon formed against me will NOT prosper. After the oncology surgeon, I see the Oncologist/ Hematologist on the Dec 4, then a Transplant specialist (can’t figure this one out). So please continue to pray. Also, Thank You so much to all of you who have donated! Such a selfless act of giving!!!!! I would NEVER ask anyone for such a thing, but I’m grateful to Kim Bostic Brock who insisted! Not everyone can donate, and that’s ok!!!! The ONLY thing I will ask for is prayers. I will worry about financial issues later. I love you and thank you ALL!!!! In Jesus name, I WILL BEAT THIS- I’m too spicy to die! ❤️❤️

11/23/24 Alaina received results last night from Thursday’s testing and labs. In her own words, she’s too spicy for this and she’s headed back on Tues to meet with surgical team and doesn’t have to wait until

12/2/24.

11/20/24 Alaina traveled to the Mayo Clinic and had extensive testing done including a detailed MRI, CT, labs. She said the mass is about 12mm in size now. If you have researched anything about this type of mass, the whole digestive tract is disrupted causing nausea, inability

to process food, and other life altering pain. She will return on 12/2/24 to meet with the surgical team to discuss the plan. Without the whipple surgery, chances of survival are less than 1% with this type of mass. Have no fear, Alaina is having the surgery and beating this mass!

Before returning to the upstate, she was able to go on the beach in Fla and that definitely lifted her spirits. She thanks everyone for their support and continued

prayers!

Alaina is a remarkable person I’ve known since high school, always ready to lend a hand to others. She’s a wife and mom of four with her hands and heart full. Lifesaving measures is her best gift. She’s spent years as a nurse saving babies and caring for the helpless in the neonatal icu, pediatric hospital, and Shriner’s hospital. Last year, she saved her own son’s life when he suffered a ruptured spleen from mono. In true Alaina style, “what a woman!”. She’s truly someone worthy of the greatest help.

Alaina is confronting her toughest challenge and needs our support. Alaina will soon travel to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, for testing and treatment related to an ampulla of Vater mass. The medical expenses are weighing heavily on her and her husband, along with their four children, making it difficult for them to concentrate on Alaina’s health. With two children in college and their youngest doing his best to support his mom by working while attending school virtually, the situation is tough.

Although Alaina is reluctant to ask for help, as she is usually the one giving it, I’m taking the reins on this challenge. I’m Kim, the friend since high school and I humbly ask you to assist this family on their journey toward Alaina’s treatment and recovery. Everything goes directly to Alaina and her family. Alaina has agreed to allow me to update here for all to follow her journey. If you feel led, please give to help Alaina and her family. If you cannot give, please add Alaina and her family to your prayers. Prayers are very powerful! Also, the artwork on the photo background is Alaina's work. She will be launching her shop on her facebook. I'll post a link once it's launched. God bless you all and thank you so much!