In late October 2021, Summer Effray (my sister) was diagnosed with an aggressive type of Leukemia called Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL). Following diagnosis, she was quickly hospitalized in Kelowna, then transferred away from her home city to Vancouver to receive treatment from the required specialists. Fortunately, Summer's condition was found early via unrelated bloodwork and treatments started immediately, so her prognosis is currently very promising.

No stranger to rare medical conditions, this is not Summer's first time in hospital. And while strong and courageous in the face of this new fight, it is hard being away from her home and friends. Additionally, this is just the beginning of a long road ahead in Vancouver. Due to the special nature of her rare condition, Summer must stay in Vancouver for treatments for 6 whole months. As you can image, in addition to the unimaginable emotion and physical toll, the coming journey will be an expensive one.

When someone is going through a hard time, we often ask how we can help. Well, here's how…. Today we are asking for your help to ease the financial burden of this fight. Your donation will go towards housing, food, and travel expenses while Summer is receiving treatment in the city often dubbed the most expensive place to live in Canada. No donation is too small.

The other day, Summer was reflecting on the beginning phases of this diagnosis and how she's trying to focus on the positive tidbits when they present themselves; she called them "nuggets of optimism". In the Leukemia Prognosis Pie (yes I made that up), APL is probably the best slice you could get served: nugget. A 15th floor room with a view of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore mountains: nugget. Free cozy grippy hospital sockies: nugget! An amazing hilarious cheerleader of a nurse named Brittany: NUGGET! And also... this big nugget... a loving and caring sister living in Vancouver to provide support during this difficult journey (Summer made me write that).

So, please help support Summer's Optimism Bucket. Your donations are more than funds, they are symbols of your love and support. We are so grateful for whatever you can spare - nuggets of all shapes and sizes are welcome here!

After donating, please share this GoFundMe by clicking that yellow button (to your right, or left or below depending on what device your using - look around, you'll find it!).

Sending love and much needed hugs to you and yours! <3

P.S. Summer is really looking forward to getting back home to Micheal, her husband, and their fur babies healthy and happy. Plus getting to spend valuable time with her loving parents and friends back in Kelowna.

P.P.S. Summer would also like to encourage everyone to get those regular blood tests and have conversations with your doctors when you notice something off. It could save your life!