My name is Nancy Aldrich Arellano and I am appealing to you on behalf of my niece, Karen Gallagher. Karen, a very talented and creative photographer in the prime of life, suffered a devastating fall causing a fractured vertebrae, requiring extensive surgery to place 3 rods in her spine. During her surgery, doctors discovered that multiple myeloma cancer had invaded her bone marrow, causing several tumors along her spine, weakening it. The heartbreaking diagnosis of multiple myeloma cancer, in addition to an extremely painful spinal surgery, is a nightmare no one wants to face.

Karen now requires lifelong treatment for this rare form of cancer while trying to recover and heal from a life-threatening spinal surgery. This is an unimaginably heavy burden for anyone to carry. Her doctors say the cancer is survivable, but she will need ongoing monitoring and possibly periodic treatment. She will also need physical therapy to stabilize and strengthen her back. Meanwhile, her ability to continue her photography business has come to a halt, as well as the income from it. Karen is a sweet, kind, courageous, and faith-filled young woman with a beautiful heart. She lives with her life partner, Walter, who has been by her side 24/7, helping her despite his own serious medical issues. Together, they are enduring enormous pain, sleepless nights, anxiety, and financial hardship.

Due to multiple allergies, Karen’s diet is very specialized, requiring specially made meals with only organic and gluten-free ingredients. She also requires several medications and supplements, adding to the financial burden incurred from her treatments. I’m asking for your generous support and thanking you in advance, from the bottom of my heart. Any amount will help and is greatly appreciated. Karen has a long road ahead of her, and I’m hopeful this fundraising effort will bring some much-needed peace of mind. God bless you!