Help Keitha Win Her Battle Against Cancer

Dear Friends and Family,

Writing this post is something I couldn't have anticipated in a million years. My mother, Keitha, a beloved wife, sister, daughter and friend to many was recently diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. We have zero history of cancer in our family, so certainly this came as quite a shock. She has a rough battle ahead, as witnessed by her first chemo session this month. She has about 4 months of continued chemo and eventually surgery. Insurance will cover some, but not all, so despite feeling fairly helpless in this situation, I'm hoping to engage her loved ones to help her try to cover some of the anticipated out of pocket medical expenses. Here's her story in her own words:

When Covid 19 was raging in early March 2020 I noticed a lump in one breast. Like many, I decided to wait to go see my doctor because the hospitals were overrun with Covid patients and I was afraid of contracting the virus. I thought I would wait until the virus had run its course or a vaccine was available. A year later, a vaccine was finally available so after receiving my vaccination I made an appointment to see my doctor. Since that appointment I have had ultrasounds, MRIs, heart and body scans along with 2 biopsies. I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. There was no history of cancer in my family, so this came as quite a shock. Unfortunately, I had waited too long to see the doctor as the cancer had moved into a lymph node under the arm. My doctor has recommended 4 months of chemotherapy and then surgery, followed by radiation therapy. I started my chemotherapy on Friday, August 13th. Chemotherapy has a lot of serious side effects so of course I'm fairly scared overall. Just prior to starting chemo, I was told that I will need several drugs and also need 7 injections of a drug called Zarxio after each chemo session that is needed to help the body produce red blood cells and the cost is $1465.00 per month. The costs of having cancer can be staggering so thank you all for supporting me and my husband during this journey.

If you have put off going to the doctor, as I did, please make an appointment for a preventive checkup and make sure your family members do the same. A few hours to see your doctor or taking the time to send in the at home colon cancer screening test that you receive in the mail can save your life.

Many of you have donated to the Meal Train that her colleagues set up at work and I can't tell you how thankful enough she is for your donation.

If you're able to contribute even a small amount, please do. Every little bit helps. I will certainly provide updates about my mom's journey throughout the process as well.

Thank you for your support,

Mindy