Help Brenda Fight Cancer

 

Brenda Levin has been one of Philadelphia’s most beloved holistic healers, specializing in acupuncture, massage, Chinese herbal medicine and nutrition counseling for oncology patients. But in a stunning twist of irony, Brenda’s experiences were also a preparation for her own cancer journey.

 

In March of 2017, as her 40th birthday was approaching, Brenda was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer – a grim prognosis which typically means 1 year to live. Yet Brenda made it through the first year. And then the second year. And then the third year, with her present and energetic spirit keeping us all laughing and optimistic.

 

But 2021 has brought upon new challenges. The cancer has begun to spread, which led to her mastectomy in March of this year. And now it is with most heavy hearts we share her latest diagnosis and this call for support. After a recent brain MRI and full body CT scan, the tests now show the cancer has spread to Brenda’s abdomen, her lungs and the dura lining of her brain, known as 'leptomeningeal carcinomatosis". Without treatment oncologists estimate a 2 months life expectancy. However with treatment, we are hopeful the proper care can extend her life up to 12 months.

 

 

Brenda has immediately begun 10 sessions of Whole Brain Radiation (WBR) as of Sept 1st and will start chemotherapy Abraxane and Carboplatin on the September 16.

 

This is an intense and aggressive treatment plan supplemented with various holistic treatments not covered by insurance, including  massage, acupuncture, PEMF treatments, psychological appointments, and overall mental health and wellness care.

 

Brenda can no longer work, and she has begun to get her affairs in order. The coming months will be overwhelming mentally, emotionally and physically, but we can help her financially. Please join us in supporting Brenda by funding  her many end of life costs and treatments. This will help provide Brenda the opportunity to best enjoy her life as comfortably as possible and to make every moment with us count.