If you know my little sister Lauren, you know that she is one of those people who seems to know how to make just about anything. She is endlessly creative and ridiculously talented—whether she’s crocheting, making handcrafted cat toys, baking amazing vegan treats, blending herbs and teas, mixing the perfect cocktail, or cooking something wonderful in the kitchen.

She’s funny, incredibly smart, sensitive, sweet, deeply caring, and loves her family fiercely. Lauren is 46 years old and lives in Florida with our mom and dad, who are now helping care for her as she goes through something none of us ever imagined we’d be facing.

On July 17, 2026, Lauren received the devastating news that she had been diagnosed with an inoperable carcinoma of the cervix caused by a rare form of HPV. Further testing determined that the cancer was Stage 3C. Since then, her life has become a whirlwind of appointments and an intensive course of radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and brachytherapy—internal radiation that is an important part of her treatment.

Through all of this, we’ve also received some incredibly encouraging news: Lauren’s tumor has shrunk from 6 cm to 1 cm. Her treatment is having an effect, and we are holding onto that hope as she continues through the next phase. ❤️

Cancer treatment, however, has affected virtually every part of Lauren’s life. She hasn’t been able to work nearly as much as she normally would, and she is now facing approximately $16,000 in medical bills related to her cancer treatment, all while treatment has significantly limited her ability to work. And, of course, the everyday expenses of life don’t stop simply because someone is sick.

That’s why our family is starting this GoFundMe.

Our hope is simply to take some of the financial pressure off Lauren so she can put as much of her energy as possible toward treatment, healing, and recovery. Donations will help offset her medical expenses and the loss of income she’s experiencing while undergoing treatment. Any amount truly helps.

And if donating isn’t possible, sharing this fundraiser is an enormous help too. We also deeply appreciate every prayer, healing thought, good vibe, and bit of love being sent Lauren’s way.

Lauren has an incredibly difficult road in front of her, but she’s fighting it—and she has a whole lot of people fighting alongside her.

Thank you for helping us take care of someone who has spent so much of her life caring for and creating beautiful things for everyone else.

With so much love and gratitude,

Sommer & The Austin family ❤️