Help Me Beat Cancer: Bone Marrow Transplant Fund

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Strangers,

I'm writing to you with a heart heavy with both hope and desperation. Unfortunately, cancer has returned for the fourth time, and it's more aggressive than ever. In March, I embarked on a new chemotherapy journey to combat relapsed Hodgkin's lymphoma, now at stage 4. Despite my unwavering determination, my oncologist has confirmed that my best shot at a cure lies in a bone marrow transplant.

This transplant, scheduled for July 2024, represents my beacon of hope amidst the darkness of this relentless disease. But as much as I wish it were solely about determination and willpower, the reality is that medical treatments come with hefty price tags. While my insurance is supportive and will cover 60% of the transplant costs, the remaining 40% and the associated living expenses during recovery loom like insurmountable mountains. I've explored every avenue for financial assistance, from applying to campaigns like the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society to seeking grants from the Patient Advocate Foundations. However, the assistance I've received so far has been a mere drop in the bucket, barely making a dent in the mountain of bills that await. Adding to the challenge is my inability to qualify for disability benefits with my current employer due to not meeting the requirements yet. It's a frustrating situation where I desperately need support but don't meet the criteria to receive it.

I'm not one to ask for help lightly. In fact, it's with a heavy heart and a sense of shame that I find myself reaching out in this manner. But the truth is, I need your help. I want to live, I want to be healthy, and I want to have a future free from the shadows of cancer. By contributing to this fundraiser, you're not just helping with medical bills; you're giving me the gift of peace of mind, knowing that I can focus on healing without the crushing burden of financial stress.

The road ahead is long and uncertain, with a minimum six-month recovery period following the transplant, the first three months being especially critical. But with your support, I'll face it with renewed strength and determination, buoyed by the love and generosity of those who believe in me. If you've ever wondered if your kindness could change a life, let me assure you: it can. Your donation, no matter the size, will be a beacon of hope in my darkest hour. And if by chance you know of any other avenues of assistance or support, please don't hesitate to reach out.

From the depths of my heart, thank you for being a ray of light in my journey. With your help, I'll continue to fight for a healthier future, one filled with gratitude for the unwavering support of my community.

With heart in my hands thank you,

Mariemily Fazio