<div>I was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2025, and since then, our family has faced a series of challenges. After my initial lumpectomy, I discovered two new lumps, which turned out to be aggressive and fast-growing. This led to another surgery, but unfortunately, the borders were not clear. My case was brought to the tumor board, and their recommendation was a double mastectomy, which I underwent in October. I managed to return to work for a few shifts in January before another surgery in February. Shortly after, Blake was laid off from work, and despite his tireless efforts to secure a new job, the job market has proven to be tough. I was cleared to return to work at the end of April, and I am working as many hours as possible, but we are still struggling to get our head above water. Our priority is to cover basic needs like rent, car payments, insurance, and utilities, while also keeping our girls mentally and physically healthy after everything they’ve been through this year.
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<div>Extracurricular activities have been a saving grace for our girls. All three are dedicated and driven to work hard to make it onto the competition dance team. We want to support their dreams, but as a one-income family, the cost of having three kids in competitive dance is financially out of reach. Band instrument rental and other activities like arts and crafts bring them joy and normalcy. These funds will help us keep their passions alive and give them stability during this difficult time. Cancer is expensive, and the bills don’t stop. I recently had an oncology appointment where a new mass was found, so I will be undergoing more imaging and likely more surgeries later this year.
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<div>Dear family and friends, we are choosing to be vulnerable by sharing our story. It is intimate and scary to open up, but we are humbled by any help to support the girls. We promise ourselves to pay it forward tenfold. We are beyond grateful for your compassion and support. <em>Please keep our journey among adults, as we don’t want our children or yours to worry about finances.</em> Thank you for being here for us.
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<div>With love + gratitude,
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<div>Blake &amp; Laci
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Becky Stromley

Heidi Schmidt

Anonymous

Julie Sundaram

Lisa M Williams

Kaitlin Erickson

Shelby Reitz

Shirlee Xie

Shauna Sperber

Susan Hawk

Katie Crammer

Heather Ekre

Megan Nill

Kristi Osterberg

Kari Witschen

Help Our Girls Thrive During Cancer Recovery

Help Our Girls Thrive During Cancer Recovery

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