Deidra is in continued treatment for aggressive Stage 3 HER2+ breast cancer.

A few weeks ago, Deidra was informed by her employer that she is no longer eligible to receive pay during her medical leave. This was her only source of income.

She is a single mother to two young boys, Thaddeus and Rutledge. Thaddeus is 11-years-old and in 6th grade. Rutledge is 9-years-old and in 4th grade.

Thaddeus and Rutledge have had to take on more responsibilities over the last several months while their mom has been in treatment. When she needs assistance or can’t physically endure household chores, the boys gladly help with the laundry, dishes, cooking, and caring for the family dogs.

Remarkably, both Thaddeus and Rutledge have been able to maintain straight A’s in school. Deidra is doing her best to shield them and stay strong.

HER2+ breast cancer requires a year of chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy infusions. Deidra receives an infusion every 3 weeks. The infusions cause her much fatigue, significant neuropathy, and bone pain, making work impossible.  

This week, she began daily radiation treatments.  She will receive 28 rounds of radiation. 

Deidra will be getting infusions (including maintenance chemotherapy) until September and remains unsure how she is going to support the basic needs of her children without the ability to work and earn an income.

While Deidra is typically on the giving end of fundraisers, she is (very) regrettably in a position where she needs to ask for (continued) help.

Deidra is a person who lights up a room, gives to others unconditionally (and always), works harder than most, and is kind to every person.  

Let’s help her get through this last stretch of treatment so that she can focus on healing and caring for Thaddeus and Rutledge.

She is grateful for donations of any amount.