I am Stephanie. I will give you the list of ways I always like to be considered: I am a mother, sister, grandmother, mental heath therapist, paddle boarder, friend, lover of pumpkins, learner, and a creative spirit. This year I turned 40. I was so excited to give myself the gift of not giving a damn about my body image any longer. It felt great. I was loving this body of mine and wearing whatever made my heart happy. Then, I was faced with a challenge- cancer. It really has been difficult to keep myself in the gift I gave myself.

I was diagnosed with DCIS in August. Cancer treatment moves fast, thank goodness, but I am still processing that this is happening and each day I find myself faced with a new challenges related to my cancer diagnosis. My prognosis is good and I am so grateful that this cancer is beatable, but the effects of cancer will linger, especially in my finances. I own a private practice mental health clinic, but I am my only employee. I have had great fear in taking time off to care for myself due to the challenges of our rising economy and the out of pocket costs related to my treatment. I am so fortunate that I have health insurance, but the costs are more than my bank account will allow. I am not one to share my personal information, so this GO Fund Me is a vulnerable moment for me. Many have asked how they can support me. This is one way to help me with this journey in a meaningful way for my family. Any donation is greatly appreciated.