Our sweet, epitome of light and love, Neon (Lauren) Vermilion, has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. We all know they are a fighter - and the goodness that they have shared with this world will come right back to them tenfold as they navigate treatment.
But as they navigate these challenges, Neon could use your support! Neon learned recently that United Healthcare (yes - the same United Healthcare you know) has denied their IVF treatment, meaning they need to pay $6,000 out of pocket. This also won't be enough to cover the IVF egg/oocyte retrieval process - another $10,000. UHC additionally did not pay for the initial CT scan that caught a fourth of Neon's 10cm tumor.
From this experience, Neon and those close to them are obviously concerned and unclear about how much UHC will deny during the chemotherapy, radiation, and mastectomy process. Neon has said that their claims keep getting denied after they were initially told UHC would cover these costs.
In addition to this, Neon will have extra costs for travel across the country for treatment, missed work, and just other costs associated with cancer treatment that may not be covered.
On top of ALL of this - Neon will be working full time through chemo to maintain their health insurance. So...sweet treats are definitely needed and we encourage you to also consider sending them a gift from their Amazon Wishlist.
We are asking for $30,000 to cover not only IVF treatment, but other costs Neon might face when fighting this cancer. And - let’s be so for real - they are going to need a few dozen sweet treats, too.
Whether you can give $5 or $500, any contribution helps. Please give what you can and share this far and wide. Let’s get our sweet angel healthy!!!
About Neon:
Neon is a fighter. If you know their story, you know that life hasn’t always been kind, throwing much more than one person should have to endure at them. Through it all, Neon has stayed strong, fighting for themselves, women and queer folks, and the environment. Despite every challenge, Neon has kept their love for life, nature, kitty cats (really animals of all kinds!), and environmental justice. From 2018 to 2025, Neon chaired and sang in the Pittsburg Pride Choir, and is a constant advocate for public health and safety. A world with Neon is better for them being in it - those who have had the opportunity to know them, and the privilege to be their friend, are so unfathomably lucky.
Organizer and beneficiary
Lauren Vermilion
Beneficiary




