Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart on behalf of my dear friend, Heather Cordeiro, who is courageously fighting stage 4 breast cancer that has spread. Heather has dedicated about 30 years of her life as a special education teacher in Fall River, MA, always putting her autistic students and others first. Now, she needs our help.

Since her diagnosis, Heather has undergone multiple rounds of treatment, including chemotherapy and surgeries. While she continues to fight with incredible strength and determination, the medical bills have been quickly piling up. We are asking for help to ease the overwhelming financial burden so Heather can focus on what matters most—healing.

Heather has been hospitalized at Brigham and Women’s Hospital for about a month, receiving intensive treatment and care. In addition to current medical bills, she is facing ongoing and future medical expenses that will continue long after her hospital stay.

Heather’s husband, Brian, is self-employed and has remained faithfully by her side throughout this incredibly difficult time. Because he has been unable to work while caring for Heather, they are also experiencing a significant loss of income.

Heather is more than this diagnosis. She is full of life, incredibly funny, and truly knows how to enjoy life. Her contagious laughter, warmth, and positive spirit have always lifted those around her.

She is also the best dog mom through and through. Heather has a beloved puppy named Clancey, whom she misses terribly while being hospitalized. Anyone who knows Heather knows how deeply she loves Clancey and how much joy that puppy brings into her life. Being away from him has been especially hard and is a constant reminder of everything she is fighting to get back to.

Funds raised will help with:

Current medical bills

Future medical expenses, including treatments, medications, and follow-up care

Lost income while Brian remains at Heather’s side

Future care needs, including in-home care, medical equipment, and daily support if Heather is able to return home

After everything Heather has given to her students, colleagues, and community, it’s our turn to surround her with love, support, and hope. Knowing that people care and are standing behind her can give Heather something powerful to fight for.

Any donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page or leaving a message of encouragement—it truly means more than words can say.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, generosity, prayers, and support.

Rebecca Dumont CAGS

Fellow special educator and friend!