My name is Marcia, and I never imagined I would be in a position where I’d need to ask for help. Since January, I’ve been out of work, and I lost the home I lived in for over five years. Now, I’m at risk of losing my car, which is my only way to get to my daily medical appointments. On top of all this, I’ve been diagnosed with stage three rectal cancer. I’m facing six weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, five days a week, followed by several more months of treatment. The pain and side effects are overwhelming—sometimes it’s hard to stand, sit, walk, or even lie down. Eating is a struggle, and the nausea makes it even harder to keep my strength up.

I’m doing everything I can to hold on to the things that matter most: my car, my phone so I can stay in touch with my children who live in different states, and the storage unit that holds all the memories from their childhood. I never knew cancer could take so much away—not just my health, but my livelihood and the things I’ve worked so hard for. I’m also facing unexpected medical expenses and struggling to afford basic health and hygiene products that help me feel human during this difficult time.

I’m not someone who usually asks for help, and when I do, it always feels like it’s too late. My dad and stepmom are both gone, and I have no one else to turn to. I truly believe God led me here to ask for help, and any support—no matter how small—would mean the world to me. Your kindness would relieve so much stress and give me hope as I go through treatment and focus on healing. I am deeply grateful for any help I receive, and I promise to pay it forward when I am able. Thank you for giving me a glimmer of hope in these trying times.