Help Kim Beat Renal Cancer

Hi, my name is Kim. A few months ago, I was having severe pain in my left leg. The doctor wanted an MRI, but insurance wanted to try PT and medication first. Fast forward a few months, and I finally got the MRI approved. When I went to see the doctor, instead of giving me good news on treatment for my leg (which turned out to be degenerative disc disease) they found a mass on my kidney and wanted to address that first. It was kind of like, let's wait on the leg - here's some cancer instead.

I had a CT scan with and without contrast a week later. They found that mass again, but they also found two more. I have an over 6mm one, an over 3mm one, and one on my uterus. The CT scan lit up, which means renal cell carcinoma. I already have an appointment with the urologist this week so they can get started.

The Next Steps

The following steps include surgery. One may be able to be taken care of more straightforwardly, but the large mass means surgery and possibly removing that kidney. As far as the one on the uterus, I haven't even seen someone about that yet. This has all happened pretty fast.

I Need Help

While I have insurance, the co-pays have already depleted much of my savings, and I've used most of my credit cards. I've never shied away from hard work, and I work two jobs. Yet, all of these surgeries and recovery time means I'll miss out on pay, and I do not have paid time off at either job. One is freelance work - I don't write, I don't get paid. The other job is the same - I don't work, no pay. Between the copays, medications, and loss of work, I need help.

I don't usually ask for things like this. I don't know if it's pride or the fact that I've always taken care of things myself. But I don't have but two family members left, and neither have money - they work just like me.

I Get It

I know things are rough for everyone right now, so why should you care about someone like me? I honestly don't know. I do know it is appreciated and anything helps. Even if it's a dollar, what if 100 others can only spare that? It'll help.

I Just Want to Heal

I thought my biggest problem was the pain from my disc. That is pretty dehabilitave itself. Now that has become secondary. I'm still in a lot of pain, but this cancer has to go. It seems the odds of survival are pretty decent if it's taken care of.

I have so much to give the world. I have two rescue dogs that love and need me. I also have a bird who loves calling me his bobo. My fish just had babies. I've written two books, and have contracts for two more in the future. But royalties won't make you rich unless you're someone huge like Stephen King (lucky him for being so awesome). The point is, we all have something to give the world. I'm not famous, but I matter, just like you.

I Appreciate Everyone

Again, times are tough and I know I'm just one person in this vast world of needing help. I hope you find it in your heart to consider anything you can do.