Meet Coco (Nikki) — an incredible, vibrant woman with a zest for life. She’s the first to crack a joke, bring the fun, and make everyone feel seen. On September 9, 2025, Coco was diagnosed with Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, an aggressive form of breast cancer. She now faces months of surgeries, time away from work, possible chemo and radiation, and five years of hormone therapy. We are raising money for Coco to cover urgent treatment, recovery costs, and fertility preservation so she and her husband, Matt, can still hope for the family they’ve dreamed of.

Coco loves fiercely—her family and friends, her husband Matt, her dog Poppy (adopted from the shelter where she volunteers weekly), and every animal she meets. At home, she dotes on three cats: Leonardo “Leo” DiCatprio and Beau (both foster-fails) and her 17-year-old queen, Heidi. She’s dedicated to her community—volunteering for animal charities and mentoring young women navigating chronic autoimmune conditions. She’s active, outdoorsy, and endlessly creative with a million artistic passions. Now she needs the strength of her community to help keep that light burning on the hardest days.

How we got here

Painful chest spasms led to urgent care and imaging that showed a 95% likelihood of malignancy. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. Overnight, Coco went from a happy-go-lucky 38 year old to someone managing chronic pain, nonstop appointments, and real fear. Since July, the tumor has compressed a nerve in her chest wall, causing constant chest spasms and preventing her from lifting her arm above her head—drastically reducing her day-to-day quality of life and mobility.

Another invisible battle

In addition to breast cancer, Coco has severe autonomic nervous system conditions she has battled her whole life: Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)—a trio often called the “Dysautonomia Trifecta.” The stress of the cancer diagnosis and financial strain has triggered a flare, bringing daily hives and allergic reactions, heart palpitations, dizzy spells, joint pain, and inflammation. These symptoms make everyday tasks and recovery harder—and add to the overall cost of care.

What’s ahead

Coco faces multiple surgeries over the next 6–8 months, a prolonged absence from work (unpaid FMLA), and potential chemotherapy and radiation between surgeries. Because her cancer is hormone-positive, she will begin five years of hormone therapy that will trigger early menopause, along with post-surgery physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

Family plans, on hold—but not gone

Coco and Matt had been trying to start a family when the diagnosis hit. They’re urgently pursuing egg retrieval and embryo freezing before treatment and will likely need a gestational carrier after the impact of her cancer treatment.

Where your gift goes

Coco will be on unpaid FMLA leave, and Matt will step back from work as needed to care for her. Your support—donating, sharing, or sending a note—lightens the load and reminds her she isn’t fighting alone.

From her people

Coco and Matt are profoundly grateful for the love already surrounding them. Your kindness lifts Coco’s spirits and helps her stay positive on the toughest days. If you’re able, please donate and share this page. Every bit of support matters. Thank you.