If you know me, you know that I am someone who has always valued my independence and struggled to ask for or accept help. But over the past few years, I have been humbled by the incredible kindness of friends, family, and even those who barely know me. So many of you have reached out asking how you can support me and where you can donate—and I want to honor that generosity by opening up this space.

For those who may be new here, my journey began in May 2022, when I was diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer. I went through months of chemo and radiation and was thankfully declared cancer free. But in May 2024, the cancer had metastasized to both of my lungs, and that summer I endured two major lung surgeries. Once again, I was told I was cancer free—until this August, when one of my routine check-ups revealed the devastating news that the cancer had returned to my rectum.

Biopsies confirmed that the tumor was made up of resistant cancer cells left behind from my original diagnosis. After meeting with my doctors, the best option for me is a major surgery scheduled for September 19th. During this procedure, my rectum, colon, and anus will be removed, and my colon will be redirected through my abdomen. This means that I will be adjusting to life with a permanent colostomy bag—but also that I have the chance, once again, to fight for a future free from cancer.

As much as I hesitate to ask for help, the truth is that the medical journey is overwhelming not only physically and emotionally, but financially. Every follow-up, every scan, every round of bloodwork, and every appointment adds up. While insurance covers some costs, so much still falls on me. It can be incredibly frustrating to log into my medical chart only to see another new bill added to the list. My hope is that by creating this page, I can lessen some of that financial burden, so I can focus my energy on healing and recovery after surgery.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who has walked alongside me in this fight—through your love, your prayers, your messages, and your generosity. I believe that brighter days are still ahead, and with your support, I will meet this next chapter with strength and hope.