On July 6, our dear friend Monika Smith received the life-changing news that she has stage 2 breast cancer.

Over the next several weeks, Monika will undergo surgery to remove the cancer and lymph nodes to make sure the cancer hasn’t spread. She's currently waiting on MRI and blood work results to determine whether a lumpectomy will be possible or if a full mastectomy will be necessary — a decision that will significantly affect both her treatment plan and its cost. Because Monika also lives with a chronic illness, her doctors are carefully weighing the safest, most effective path forward through the next several years of medications and therapies.

Monika has insurance, but like so many facing cancer, it doesn't cover everything. Her estimated out-of-pocket medical cost if the cancer hasn’t spread is over $50,000 with multiple surgeries ahead of her.

Beyond medical bills, Monika will need real time away from performing and teaching while she heals — which means lost income right when expenses are highest. Funds raised will help cover recovery time, living expenses, transportation to appointments, nutritional support, therapy, and everything else this journey demands.

As if one devastating diagnosis wasn't enough, the day after Monika learned she had cancer, she found out her dog Felix does too. Felix has been her constant companion for 12 years— through long walks, tv marathons and even improv classes. Classic move by Felix to find a way to do this with her as well. Felix’s 2nd surgery and treatment is estimated at $7000.

If you know Monika, you know how special she is — a gifted actress, a hilarious improviser, and a teacher who has inspired students across multiple improv communities. She's spent years making people laugh, building community, and helping others find their comedic voice in this chaotic world. Now we want to give some of that back.

Monika absolutely hates asking for help, which is why we're asking on her behalf. As her close friends know, this isn't new — over the past year and a half she's had two separate surgeries that pulled her out of work during recovery, and both times she pushed through without reaching out for support. This time, we're not letting her do that alone.

Any donation, no matter the size, makes a difference — and if you can't give, sharing this page helps too. Your support means Monika can put her energy and focus on healing, getting through this next chapter surrounded by people she loves and her pup, Felix.

We'll keep this page updated as her treatment plan takes shape.

Thank you for showing Monika the same kindness and support she's given so many others