I have good news and bad news. The good news is I am embarking on another adventure! The bad news is it’s not an adventure anyone signs up for: CANCER. Specifically, squamous cell carcinoma on my right lower eyelid. Fast growing and destructive, (YIKES!) But not spreading. (WHEW!) It’s probably going to be the most expensive and painful adventure of my life so far, (but not quite the scariest. That title still belongs to surviving a plane crash in Guatemala City. OBVIOUSLY.)

I’m currently working 6-7 days a week (for three awesome local businesses) and have been so fortunate to be able to pay my bills, and help put my youngest kiddo through college. This cancer diagnosis has brought all of that to a screeching halt, at least temporarily. Because even though I’m still working, my income has already taken a hit because of missed work and expensive doctors appointments.

Mohs surgery is a highly specialized procedure used to remove skin cancer layer by layer. During surgery, the doctor removes a small amount of tissue, examines it under a microscope, and continues removing additional tissue only where cancer cells remain. This allows the surgeon to remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. While this surgery offers great hope, it can also be physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelming. Depending on how much tissue must be removed, I will need stitches, reconstructive surgery, a skin graft, plastic surgery consultation, and follow-up care. Recovery will include wound care, medical appointments, discomfort, limited activity, and time away from my normal responsibilities.

Sounds terrifying, but… BRING IT. I can totally handle having needles and scalpels carving up my eyelid for a day, while I’m mostly WIDE awake (deep breath). Because a little cancer won’t break me like a tsunami of high interest debt will.

I need help. ASAP!!!!

I call this a Timex moment! You know, the kind of moment when you take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’. You get a story and maybe even a cool scar to share with fellow adventurers. Many aren’t so lucky. (Believe me when I say I am overwhelmed with gratitude.). My surgeries are scheduled for July 20th. I AM BEYOND FORTUNATE to be part of an amazing community! If you are able to help in any way, whether it be a financial contribution or helping to share this campaign with your circle, I would be eternally grateful. Many of you have witnessed my adventures, ( and misadventures). You have shared kindness and humor when I needed it the most. YOU inspire me to go out into the world, to witness and ponder the infinite complexity of nature’s beauty and the human experience. And for that, I thank you. (and yes, I will absolutely be rocking the latest eyepatch fashion!)

I will be posting updates along the way.

Thank you!!!!