"You never know how strong you are, until being strong is the only choice you have."

My best friend, Donni, has recently been diagnosed with Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer. Receiving news like this is never something you can prepare for, but even more so at such a young age. Donni has remained incredibly positive through this unimaginable time and her light is still shining bright through it all.

These months to come are going to be a journey for her, with many ups and downs. But we know she can get through this chapter of her life with the support of her friends and family all the way. 

While the proposed plan of treatment has already been altered and will likely be altered again before she starts treatment in early to mid-August, here is what we know now: Treatment will take close to a full year to complete. Donni will go through 6 rounds of chemotherapy over 3 months via an implanted port to shrink the tumor. The tumor will then be removed and followed by 8 more rounds of chemotherapy over 4 months. While this is subject to change at any time, we know it’ll be a long road.  

Even when it’s hardest to understand or see through the dark clouds, there is always a silver lining. For Donni that comes with the news that her cancer hasn’t metastasized, and it is CURABLE!

For those of you who know Donni well, you know what a strong and independent woman she is. Donni is not only an incredible friend, but also a loving girlfriend, daughter, sister, niece, and cousin.

Arguably one of the things most important to her, are her students. She is going on her 5th year of dedicating her time, efforts, energy, and passion towards being a 1st grade teacher and role model for the future generation. Donni is one of the most selfless individuals on this planet, always putting family, friends, and her students first. It is time for her to feel the love and hope through constant support of the people in her life so that she can focus on herself, both mind and body, to heal and get back to doing what she loves most.

Having insurance will help with medical costs, but not everything will be covered. Donni is young and wants to have children one day. The treatment she will go through can compromise her chance at becoming a mom in the future, unless she goes through an egg freezing cycle. This can cost approximately $20,000. There will be other costs associated with her treatment plan and she will have unforeseen out-of-pocket expenses. Donni will also have to take time off throughout the school year to rest and heal. We have a big goal to fulfill to make sure Donni is taken care of in the best ways available to her.

Please help in supporting Donni and her family. Whether it's sending a donation, sharing this GoFundMe page with everyone you know and spreading the word, or a simple text or phone call. No act is too small. Together we can do more than we’ll ever do alone.

Thank you everyone for your love and support!!!
XO JO