Help Support the Pence Family

On May 18, 2022, our dear friend, Amanda Pence, was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. After undergoing surgery and difficult treatments, she received the news by November 2022 that her scans and bloodwork were all clear. A second scan in February remained clear, as did the colonoscopy May 2023.

In June of 2023, Amanda opened the new location to her Far Above Rubies Spa in Newbo Market. Unfortunately one month later, PET scans revealed new spots lighting up by her ovaries, and on August 18 her local doctors confirmed the cancer was back.

Amanda was able to fly down to Houston mid-September for a second opinion at MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the specialists confirmed that the cancer is back and is now stage 4. Doctors explained the cancer is now in her ovaries and her peritoneum (the serous membrane lining the cavity of the abdomen and covering the abdominal organs). Within the lining, it is in her diaphragm, as well as in between her uterus and rectum. The doctor explained her cancer to be micro metastatic and will continue to come back.

Upon returning from Houston, a chemo port was put back in on 9/22 and chemo was started again on 10/3. Amanda is now undergoing 2 months of chemo, additional blood work and scans, and meeting with local oncologists. Then Amanda will be flying back down to Houston for laparoscopic surgery January 5th, followed by major surgery 1/10/24 to remove cancerous tumors. They anticipate her hospitalization to be approx. 8-10 days, but Amanda will remain in Houston for an additional 2 weeks for monitoring. Doctors anticipate another 2-3 months, or more, of additional healing. Time frame is dependent on whether or not the doctors complete a chemo bath (at the end of surgery to remove tumors, the abdominal cavity is bathed in a heated, highly concentrated chemotherapy solution to eliminate any residual cancer).

Needless to say, Amanda’s journey thus far, and what is coming in the months ahead, will not be easy. Physically, mentally, emotionally and financially. Many people have reached out wondering how they can help. First and foremost, please pray for our beautiful friend! Pray for peace throughout her journey, for healing, for wisdom of her medical team, for her family and those caring for her. A meal train has also been started for her and her family if you'd like to contribute a warm meal. Lastly, and with much encouragement, Amanda and Brian have agreed to accept help via a Go Fund Me. Please consider a monetary donation to help ease the burden of medical costs, as well as expenses related to travel, meals, and time away from work (for both her and Brian). Thank you in advance for any contribution you are able to make, and for your continued prayers for Amanda, Brian, McKenzie and Riley.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed. For I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10