Help Linkyn Palmer fight Osteosarcoma

Hi, my name is Stephanie and I am fundraising to help Linkyn Palmer in her fight against a rare, agressive cancer -osteosarcoma. Just a few months after her high school graduation, Linkyn was diagnosed with cancer. While her friends and former classmates were heading to university, travelling, or working, Linkyn was undergoing a series of medical tests and debilitating cancer treatments. Linkyn’s tumour is large, affecting her spine, ribs, and lung, making it difficult to remove surgically; however, the Toronto Sarcoma Group have evaluated Link’s case and agreed to perform the surgeries required to remove the tumour. It is currently estimated that the surgeries will occur mid January, in Toronto. The surgeries are invasive and extensive, involving removal of bones and soft tissue. Recovery will be a minimum of 1 year. Linkyn and her mom, Tammy will be in Toronto for approximately 3 weeks. Scott will be in Toronto for the surgery but will return to Moose Jaw afterwards to be with Liam. All funds raised will go towards alleviating some of the financial pressure on Linkyn’s family as they travel to and from Toronto for Link’s surgery and to help support Linkyn during her year long recovery period.

Linkyn’s Story:

Linkyn was experiencing pain and discomfort in her back and ribs for years, which she was treating with a combination of chiropractics and massage therapy. In May of this year, a small lump appeared on her back so she went to the doctor to have it looked at. At that time, the lump was diagnosed as a tight muscle, physio was recommended and muscle relaxants prescribed. Linkyn attended physio several times but found the experience to be more painful with each visit and the prescribed muscle relaxants did nothing to ease her pain. By the time she graduated from high school in June, the lump was significantly bigger. In July, Linkyn’s doctor sent her for an ultrasound. The ultrasound showed a large mass, three weeks later, the subsequent MRI showed that the mass nearly doubled in size. At this point, the family was told that they were most likely dealing with cancer (type unknown at this time) and that based on the size and location of the tumour, it was inoperable.

A slew of tests ensued, PET scan, biopsy, genetic testing, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, etc, ultimately on September 15th, Linkyn was told she was dealing with osteosarcoma/bone cancer. The mass is large and attached to her spine and ribs, and is pressing on her lung. The treatment plan was to begin aggressive chemotherapy for 4-6 months in an effort to shrink the tumour to an operable size. Chemotherapy has a 50% chance of shrinking her tumour, without removal osteosarcoma is incurable.

On September 23, 2024, Linkyn began chemotherapy. In true Linkyn style, she is handling chemotherapy and all of its terrible side effects with determination, humour and hope. Despite a significant reduction in pain, and increased mobility, Linkyn’s latest scans showed no improvement in the size of her tumour. The focus now is to get Linkyn through surgery and onto recovery.

No one plans for this type of emergency, in addition to the significant cost of flights and accommodations in Toronto, there are numerous additional and unexpected expenses for a family when their child is undergoing cancer treatment. Tammy has been with Linkyn every step of the way: taking her to all appointments, keeping track of her medications, remaining by her side during hospital stays. Linkyn will need Tammy’s help and support for the foreseeable future. Linkyn has also been unable to work since beginning her chemotherapy treatments in September; it is unclear when she will be able to return to work, or what her future employment options will be following surgery and her remaining chemotherapy treatments. Financial support will help alleviate some of that stress on Linkyn and allow her to focus solely on her health.

Please consider donating to help Linkyn and her family during this challenging time. If you prefer a donation via e-transfer can be arranged.