In September, my mom was officially diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer that had already spread into a lymph node as well. Immediate treatment and chemo had to be started due to the quick movement of the cancer. In her 30th year of teaching she has had to take a leave of absence because she cannot take the risk of getting sick with her immune system as compromised as it is. The doctors have made it very clear that if she were to become ill during this process it is not likely that she could come back from it. 

My parents are losing half of their income, along with having to pay for treatments. Insurance has helped some (barely) and any sort of alternative treatment is not covered at all. My mom gets weekly fluid infusions, along with nausea medication to help her get through the weeks following chemo. She also has Vitamin C infusions prior to, and after chemo to help sustain her immune system. I would say that so far, in the past few months, they have been responsible for over $13,000 in medical bills out of pocket. 

The most difficult part is to see my mom, who is so filled with life, not feel up for the things she loves most: gardening, being outdoors, and spending time with her grandchildren. Even if my mom cannot enjoy the things she normally does, I want to make it my personal mission to at least make sure some of their financial burden is alleviated. I can tell you with utmost certainty that my parents have been giving to others their entire lives and never ask for anything in return. I have seen them donate money and time to any cause they could and I am positive that every cent donated to them would be more appreciated than anything. Thank you all for your support.