Help Scotia BEAT Esophageal Cancer

Hi, my name is Nikita and I am fundraising for my dear friend Scotia. In the almost 30 years I’ve known her, she’s always been a helper. Now I’m hopeful we can come together to help her.

Eight months ago, after a routine surgery, Scotia began experiencing chest pain. Thinking it was a complication of her previous surgery, she scheduled a follow up with her medical team. Over the next 7 months, her chest pain became more exacerbated, food would become trapped, making it impossible for her to eat. Concerned about abdominal pain, trouble swallowing, and continuous weight loss, she reached out to her surgical team, but her concerns were met with suggestions for over-the-counter remedies. After continuing to advocate for herself, she turned to her PCP, who ordered imaging and referred her to Gastrenterology for an upper endoscopy to investigate the blockage in her chest; an appointment that, due to limited provider ability, wouldn’t happen for 6 months. During that time, Scotia lost upwards of 30 pounds, her nutrition declined, and she continued to experience worsening abdominal pain.

Excited about getting answers, she went into the Endoscopy hopeful, but her hope was shattered when she was told by the operating physician that, based on what he had seen, she should prepare for the possibility that she might have cancer. Two days later, she was diagnosed with a rare form of Esophageal cancer.

Scotia has since learned that the cancer has metastasized and spread beyond her esophagus. As a result, the cancer can be treated, but not cured.

I met Scotia when I was in the 9th grade. She was a year ahead of me and I was quickly drawn to her as she seemed to know all the answers! Across the last 30 years, she’s continued to be my friend with the answers. When I need a rational answer, I call Scotia. When I need to know how to help someone else, I call Scotia. She’s carried that desire to help into her professional career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is compassionate, caring, kind hearted and an all around good soul.

And even during the most difficult time

in her life, she’s continued to be concerned about others. In true Scotia fashion, her heart has been heavy in sharing the news and desiring to comfort those around her.

If you’ve ever been impacted by her life, we ask that you give. If you have ever known what it means to be surrounded by community, we ask that you give. If you see the picture of this darling soul and smile to yourself, we ask that you give. Help us help someone who has consistently dedicated her life to giving to others.

As Scotia is self-employed, the frequency of her treatment will significantly impact her ability to work. All donations will be used to cover her medical and personal expenses.

Thank you in advance for your support.