Our family is asking for help for my sister, Elaine , a 54-year-old registered nurse who has spent her career caring for others.

Recently, Elaine was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer with malignant pleural effusion- it’s also spread to her bones. Her doctors have told her the disease is aggressive and terminal, and she will need to begin intensive treatments immediately.

Because of the severity of her condition, and the rapid onset of debilitating symptoms,Elaine can no longer work. Overnight, she went from being a hardworking nurse supporting herself to having no income and soon no health insurance.

Right now, all of her energy needs to go toward fighting this disease and getting through treatment so the time she has left is not spent worrying about how she will pay rent or keep the lights on.

We are hoping to raise enough money to help cover basic living expenses—rent, food, and utilities—for the next few months while Elaine waits for Social Security and other assistance to begin. Unfortunately, the application and approval process for a lot of these programs can take time, and this campaign is meant to help bridge that gap.

Our intention is to close this fundraiser as soon as her benefits begin. We are simply trying to help her stay stable during this incredibly difficult period so she can focus on her care.

Elaine has spent her life caring for patients and supporting others. Now we are hoping the community can come together to help care for her.

Every donation—no matter the amount—will make a difference. And if you’re unable to give, sharing this page would mean just as much.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers during this very difficult time.

With gratitude,

The Family of Elaine