Help Support Tina's Cancer Journey

Hi, my name is Tara, and I am starting this fundraiser for my best friends mother, Tina MacLellan. Earlier this month, Tina and Caitlin's world was turned upside down, when they discovered Tina has terminal cancer. She has been diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell adenocarcinoma, with metastases to her brain, and other areas throughout her body. Unfortunately, Tina's cancer is inoperable and ultimately terminal.

Over the last month, Tina and Caitlin have been travelling back and forth between Halifax, Antigonish, and Sydney, for PET, CT, and MRI scans. While also meeting with oncology doctors, and cancer navigators to plan for Tina's course of action.

Although, her diagnosis is terminal, treatment will give her the best chance of having some quality, of the life she has left. Without treatment, her prognosis is short, with only 2-4 months. With treatment, a year, give or take. With that being said, one never knows an exact time frame, and we all know that the power of positivity can go a long way, and miracles do happen. Tina is a fighter, which she instilled in Caitlin at a young age.

I have been friends with Caitlin for over 20 years, so this news breaks my heart. Caitlin is an only child, however we are as close as sisters, and I see Tina as my second mom.

As some of you may know, this isn't their first time on a journey with cancer. When Caitlin was 10 years old, she was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. I remember that day so clearly, as I was afraid I was going to lose my best friend. Now, my best friend is going to eventually lose her rock, and biggest supporter, her mother, far too soon. Life can be so unfair, I still can't believe I am writing this.

Caitlin had undergone 2.5 years of treatment and chemotherapy. Thankfully, she went into remission in 2001, and has been cancer free ever since. Tina was Caitlin's main support and cheerleader throughout that period of their lives, and now the roles are reversed. To watch your daughter go through cancer at such a young age, seeing how awful it is, and now experiencing it yourself, while knowing sadly, you will not beat it, is earth shattering to say the least.

Caitlin has two daughters, Scarlett and Olivia, ages 6 and 3. Tina as been her main support for childcare for the past 6 years. Once Tina fell ill, Caitlin immediately went off work to be there for her mother. Not only did she want to be there emotionally for her, she would also have to be her main source for transportation to treatments.

Tina will begin treatments May 3rd, consisting of 4 rounds of chemo and immunotherapy, and then radiation to follow. The radiation will target the spots on her brain, but first it is suggested to try and prevent the other areas throughout her body from spreading further.

The emotional, mental, and physical strain of a cancer diagnosis is heart breaking enough. But now, to worry about financial strain on top, is an added stressor no-one should have to deal with in such a heavy-hearted time.

I ask that you please donate what you can, no amount too small. Or, simply share this page in efforts to help with medical expenses, travel, and other related costs. I know in todays world, lots are facing financial difficulties as is, so any amount would be greatly appreciated to ease some of the burdens they will face. All the funds raised will go directly to Tina and Caitlin in their time of need.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, on behalf of Tina and her family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.