December 2024 Update on Shelley's Health Journey

Hello friends, family, and compassionate supporters,

I’m Tony McCarthy, and we’re continuing to raise funds to support our cousin, Shelley, as she battles cancer.

For the past 7 months, Shelley has been receiving aggressive cancer treatment in Florida, USA. After the medical team in Barbados exhausted all options and could no longer offer the care she needed, Shelley made the difficult decision to seek further treatment in the United States.

Shelley’s profile photo has been updated to one taken in October, following her 11th infusion at a hospital in Florida. We’re happy to report that the treatment is having a positive impact. Shelley has regained some of the substantial weight that she had lost, and this progress has brought her much-needed hope and lifted her spirits.

Unfortunately, this journey comes with a substantial financial burden. As of today, Shelley’s medical expenses have exceeded $38,000 and continue to rise.

Shelley is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and financial support she’s received so far. Your contributions are helping her stay focused on healing, and each bit of support makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

Shelley's Battle with Cancer:

We are reaching out to you with heavy hearts and a plea for support for our beloved cousin, Shelley. Shelley has been a dedicated designer for over 30 years, pouring her creativity into countless projects. However, her life has taken an unexpected turn, and she now faces a challenging health battle.

Selfless Caregiver:

Shelley's kindness and compassion extend far beyond her professional life. She was the primary caregiver for her grandparents until their passing, and for 14 years, she took on the role of legal guardian for her aunt until her aunt's peaceful departure in 2021. Shelley's devotion doesn't end there; she continues to care for her 84-year-old mother, providing love and support in every possible way.

Unexplained Weight Loss:

In June 2021, during a routine check-up, Shelley's doctor noticed unexplained weight loss. Despite multiple tests, no clear diagnosis was made. Undeterred, Shelley underwent two colonoscopies, two endoscopies, a bone-marrow check, two CT scans, and a video capsule study. It wasn't until the last two procedures that a mass (tumor) was discovered in her duodenum and liver.

Urgent Surgery and Uncovered Expenses:

Immediate surgery was deemed necessary to address the tumor. Shelley now faces a significant financial burden, as not all aspects of her treatment are covered. We are reaching out to you, our community, in the hope that you can join us in supporting Shelley on her journey to recovery.

Goal:

We are seeking to raise $20,000 CDN to alleviate the financial strain on Shelley. These funds will go towards the uncovered medical expenses, ensuring that she receives the comprehensive care she needs and deserves.

How You Can Help:

1. Donate: Any amount, no matter how small, will make a meaningful impact on Shelley's journey

2. Share: Spread the word by sharing this campaign on social media, through email, or by word of mouth. Your network might include someone who can contribute or offer assistance.

3. Offer Support: Reach out with words of encouragement, thoughts, and prayers. Emotional support is invaluable during challenging times.

Your Kindness & Support Means Everything:

In times of adversity, the strength of a community is truly tested. Let's rally together to support Shelley as she faces this health challenge.

Facing cancer is an emotionally and physically taxing experience. Shelley, a pillar of strength, is about to embark on the challenging chemo phase of her treatment. Your financial support not only helps cover the necessary medical expenses but also plays a pivotal role in reducing her stress levels.

A stress-free environment is vital for Shelley as she navigates through chemotherapy. Your kindness allows her to focus on healing, positivity, and maintaining the strength needed to conquer this formidable adversary.

God bless you for being a ray of light in Shelley's life.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Tony on behalf of Shelley