Update on Darlene Self-Hembree

My mom has been bravely fighting endometrial cancer and has undergone extensive treatment, including immunotherapy. While she continues this fight, doctors recently discovered a growing lung nodule that has become metabolically active on imaging. At this time, we are in a waiting period, preparing for a lung biopsy to determine whether this is related to her current cancer, a new cancer, or possibly a benign growth. The uncertainty has been one of the hardest parts.

As if this weren’t enough, our family is also dealing with additional health and financial strain. With my dad being sick and bedridden and my sister having to take time off to help our mom get to appointments, manage treatments, and provide day-to-day care for both of them, it’s been tough. I’ve stepped in wherever I can as well, but the reality is that cancer doesn’t pause bills or responsibilities.

To be transparent, my mom is still currently waiting on a decision from Social Security to determine whether she qualifies for temporary disability. Until that decision is made, our family has been doing everything possible to stay afloat. Covering medical costs, prescriptions, travel to appointments, household expenses, and lost income.

Anyone who knows my mom knows her strength, generosity, and heart. She is the kind of person who shows up for everyone else without hesitation and asking for help does not come naturally to her or to us. But right now, we need it.

With that being said, we are going to reactive my mom’s gofundme. The funds raised will go directly toward:

• Medical and treatment-related expenses

• Travel and gas for frequent appointments

• Household bills during periods of lost income

• Basic living expenses while disability is pending

If you are able to donate, please know that every amount truly helps. If you’re unable to give financially, sharing this page, sending prayers, positive thoughts, or words of encouragement means just as much to our family.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for supporting my mom as she continues to fight with courage and grace. We are hopeful, but we are also taking things one step at a time and your support helps us do exactly that!