For three years, Joy Matthews—a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—sought help for persistent pain on her left side. Despite her repeated visits to local doctors, her concerns were dismissed as “constipation.” It wasn’t until she was transferred to the University of Michigan Cancer Center that Joy finally received the diagnosis she had feared: a 19 cm sarcoma pressing on four major organs and part of her back muscles.

After nearly a dozen trips to the cancer center and three biopsies, Joy now has a treatment plan. She will begin chemotherapy on December 22nd, with three consecutive days of treatment every three weeks. At the same time, she is undergoing continued evaluation for cystic tumors discovered in her lungs, requiring additional two-hour trips each way for specialized testing. Once chemotherapy is complete, Joy will face major surgery to remove the tumor, which may result in the loss of her kidney, spleen, and portions of her pancreas, colon, and back muscles. After surgery, she will spend time in the ICU and at least two weeks in the hospital.

Despite the long and difficult road ahead, Joy and her family remain hopeful and optimistic for her recovery. All financial support will help cover travel costs, lodging, meals, and other expenses as Joy battles this rare and aggressive cancer. Your contributions, prayers, and kind messages mean the world to Joy and her loved ones. Thank you for supporting Joy and walking beside her on this journey.