My name is Ashley, and in August I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I began chemotherapy in September, but just days after my first treatment, I was hospitalized with sepsis and a dangerously low white blood cell count. After being released, I lost my job, and everything seemed to fall apart at once. The effects of chemo were so severe that I had to undergo a double mastectomy and have all my lymph nodes removed—a six-hour surgery that left me facing months of recovery. Fighting breast cancer alone is not easy; it has been the toughest battle by far. As a single mother to Kaiden (19), Keelan (12), and Ka’ori (7), I am doing everything I can to keep life as normal as possible for my children, but the bills are piling up and I need help to make sure they have what they need.

On top of these challenges, something incredible happened: after 41 years, I was finally reunited with my biological family in Texas. Our story was even featured on the news (https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/arkansas-woman-battling-cancer-reunites-birth-mother/91-f1040ed4-e49b-4dbd-bb33-7223b6918250). The love and support waiting for me in Texas would make a world of difference for my recovery and for my children. I want nothing more than to get home to my family, where I know I’ll have the care and encouragement I need to heal.

I have worked hard since I was 15, and it’s heartbreaking to be unable to provide for my children right now. My hope is to give Kaiden, Keelan, and Ka’ori the chance to just be kids, without worrying about adult problems. Your support will help us cover medical bills, household expenses, and the costs of getting home to Texas. Thank you for reading our story and for any help you can give—every bit brings us closer to the love and stability we need.