Support for Cindy Banda & Her Family

Cindy Banda has always been the strong one — the steady, loving older sister who stepped up in the darkest moment. In 2020, after the tragic loss of her sister Melissa Banda, who was kidnapped and killed by her ex-husband, Cindy immediately took custody of Melissa’s three children. Overnight, she became a mother of six, raising her own three kids along with her nieces and nephew.

For five years, Cindy has shown extraordinary strength, giving these children stability, love, and a sense of safety after unimaginable trauma. But now Cindy is facing a battle of her own.

Recently, she was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. She has been traveling back and forth to MD Anderson in Houston for treatment. On October 29, she underwent a mastectomy, only to learn that the cancer had already spread to her lymph nodes. She now must undergo a second surgery on December 3, followed by both chemotherapy and radiation.

Despite everything, Cindy keeps going — attending the kids’ soccer, track, and basketball events, trying to stay strong for them. But she worries deeply about providing for their needs, especially now that she has had to stop working to focus fully on her health. As the sole caregiver to six children, the financial burden is overwhelming. Her dad and stepmom help as much as they can, but the bills continue to mount: medical costs, travel expenses, childcare, household expenses, and the everyday needs of six active kids.

One of the children recently asked her, “How are we going to pay the bills?” Cindy had no answer.

Now, Cindy needs our help — after years of giving everything she had to protect and care for her family. She often says, “I’m ready for a break, baby Jesus.” And this community can help give her that break.