Help Kate fight metastatic stage 4 breast cancer

To family, friends, and acquaintances : These times are challenging for many of us, but they are catastrophic for Kate and Nate Elser.

Two months ago, Kate was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer, which has primarily gone to the bones of her spine and torso. When she started losing strength in her legs due to pressure on her spinal cord, she was admitted to the Cleveland Clinic for radiation treatments to relieve this pressure. Weeks later, she still has no use of her legs and has to rely on upper body strength to pivot from her motorized chair to a wheelchair or commode. When she is too weak because of pneumonia, blood clots in her lungs and various other side effects, Nate has to lift her and take care of these personal private needs. There is the hope, though dreaded, that spinal surgery could possibly restore the use of her legs. This, and many other decisions, will be addressed and decided over the next few weeks.

As many of you know, after devoting herself for 17 years to raising her children, Kate got her nursing degree and focused on caring for the elderly, especially those with dementia. She valued each and everyone and loved them dearly. She would often insist that it would be her honor to take care of me someday if the need arose. To my great sadness and regret, it is me taking care of her instead.

So that she could choose her own hours to accommodate her children's needs, Kate did Agency work which paid well but provided no benefits. Due to state laws, she does not qualify for unemployment benefits. Consequently, the family income has been reduced by more than half. Because Nate is paid hourly, any time he takes to drive Kate to appointments or help her or the children when necessary, his income is reduced substantially as well. For the past two months, I have devoted myself to helping my daughter and her beautiful family survive emotionally and financially. Having gone from a quiet, simple life of retirement to that of a full-time homemaker and caregiver is starting to take its toll, as is the strain on my retirement savings. So, with deep humility, I am asking for your help. Some have already stepped up to the plate, and we will be forever grateful for your thoughtfulness and generosity.

Others have asked how they can best help. Monetary gifts would be most appreciated so that the basic necessities of food, rent, household expenses and gasoline could be met. A gift of time or talent for any other needs would also be appreciated.

On behalf of the Elser Family and myself, we are deeply grateful for anything you can do to help make the path going forward as smooth as possible.

Blessings to you all.