Hi friends, family, and kind-hearted new friends! :)

My name is Shelly, and I’m reaching out with a heart full of both gratitude and vulnerability.

On August 9th, my birthday, I learned I had endometrial cancer. At the time, I was told it was Stage 1, the “best worst news related to a cancer diagnosis.”

I readied my mind for a radical hysterectomy, and on October 15, after tons of tests, imaging, X-rays, and scans, I drove to Trinity Hospital with my husband for the procedure.

Things went well! We fully met our out-of-pocket and felt confident this was it, we were cured!

That was not the outcome...

To say my world shifted when I was diagnosed with endometrial endometrioid carcinoma Stage IIIA is an understatement.

This was an unexpected and life-changing chapter I never imagined writing.

After surgery, my care team shared that the cancer had spread microscopically to my cervix and both ovaries, but thankfully, not to my lymph nodes. That was a blessing — but it also means I’ll need to go through a full course of chemotherapy and radiation as an “insurance policy” to make sure we’ve eliminated every last cell and that I am truly cured.

Why I’m Asking for Help

As anyone who’s been through cancer knows, the costs go far beyond the treatments themselves. Even with insurance, there are so many uncovered or partially covered expenses that add up quickly.

I’ve always prided myself on being independent, working hard, and juggling multiple roles — but now, my focus must shift toward healing. That means reducing my work schedule and accepting help where I once gave it.

Your support will go toward the real, everyday costs of fighting and healing from cancer:

Treatment & Medical Expenses

My insurance will cover most of my treatment after a $4,600 plus $500 out-of-pocket deductible.

Once that deductible is met, your help will allow me to reduce work hours so I can rest, recover, and focus on healing.

Cooling Cap Therapy (~$2,000): This helps reduce hair loss during chemo, but is not covered by insurance.

Nausea medications and other comfort/supportive drugs are not covered at all — and they’re essential to tolerate treatment.

Pre- and post-therapy items (like hydration supplements, mouth rinses, gentle skincare, and medical supplies) have been unexpected but truly necessary to stay strong through each cycle.

Radiation therapy will follow chemo, bringing additional co-pays and recovery costs.

Home & Life Support

Reduced work hours to prioritize rest, recovery, and medical appointments.

Pet care (“Pup Camp”) for my dogs, Stella and Otto, to make sure they’re loved, cared for, and happy while I undergo treatment.

Meal prep and nutrition support for foods that help maintain energy and boost immunity.

Transportation costs for frequent medical visits — gas, tolls, parking, and occasional long travel days.

Comfort and recovery essentials like heating pads, soft wraps, headscarves, and other small but meaningful items that make daily life during treatment more bearable.

Cleaning and household help for the days when fatigue hits hardest.

Anything remaining will be paid forward to the American Cancer Society to help others in need. All of the grants and financial aid I explored with them hit brick walls.

The Goal

Every donation — big or small — makes a difference. It’s not just about the money; it’s about creating space for me to truly heal without the weight of constant financial worry.

Why #ShellyStrong

#ShellyStrong isn’t just a hashtag — it’s a reminder that strength comes in many forms: physical, emotional, and spiritual. It’s about hope, community, and choosing light even on the hardest days.

If you can donate, share this campaign, or simply keep me in your prayers, please know you’re part of my story — and part of my healing.

Thank you for helping me focus on what truly matters: recovery, hope, and getting back to the life I love — surrounded by my family, friends, and, of course, my pups.

With all my gratitude and love,

Shelly

#ShellyStrong