Dear friends, family, and compassionate supporters,

I am reaching out as the sister of Cynthia, a remarkable woman who has been courageously battling bile duct cancer since 2021. When Cynthia was diagnosed in 2021, she was told she had months to live. At the time, she and her husband Drew chose to accept the diagnosis—but not the prognosis. Nearly four and a half years later, Cynthia is still here through a combination of resilience, relentless advocacy for herself and others, and the steady presence of family, friends, and community who continue to love and walk alongside her.

Throughout these past four years, Cynthia and Drew have navigated the complexities of the Canadian healthcare system while also seeking additional treatment options outside Canada. As a result, they have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars—not just to extend Cynthia’s life, but also to build and strengthen the bile duct cancer community, promote advocacy initiatives, and raise awareness about this rare form of cancer.

Together, Cynthia and Drew have become passionate advocates for cancer research throughout Manitoba and beyond. They have always been willing to share their story, support others in need, and dedicate their time to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. If you know someone who has received a bile duct cancer diagnosis, it’s likely that Cynthia has already spoken with them, acting as a mentor and guiding light, helping them navigate the emotional, financial, and political barriers to care in Canada. She has become a source of hope and a symbol of resilience for many.

After 4.5 years of sustained advocacy and careful pursuit of all available treatment options, Cynthia has reached the limits of care currently available to her in Canada. A clinical trial in Houston now offers a glimmer of hope—an opportunity for Cynthia to gain precious time with her family and friends. However, the costs associated with this trial are substantial. As an international patient, Cynthia will face significant out-of-pocket expenses for travel, accommodation, and standard care at MD Anderson hospital in Houston, which could exceed $100,000 USD over the next six months.

Cynthia and Drew have always been deeply independent and have approached this journey with great care and intention. Over the years, they have been approached by numerous individuals in their community asking how they can help, and this campaign offers a concrete way for those who wish to help to do so. Funds raised will go toward the costs associated with the clinical trial, including travel and accommodation in Houston, uncovered medical expenses, and the practical care arrangements that make this treatment possible, such as in-home childcare for their children, Wynn and Sid. Together, these supports will allow Cynthia and Drew to focus on treatment while ensuring stability and care for their children.

Supporting this campaign—through a donation or by sharing—will help Cynthia, Drew, Wynn, and Sid as they take this next critical step together. It also offers a way to stand beside someone who has spent years standing beside others facing this diagnosis. Any level of support truly makes a difference in all our lives.

Thank you for taking the time to read their story and for any support you’re able to offer.

With gratitude,

Pamela Nowell