I’ve created this GoFundMe for my friend Rene, a single mother who is now facing Stage 3 aggressive breast cancer on her own.

Being a single mom is never easy, but Rene has been carrying more than most could imagine. From the very first detection, she has handled every challenge with strength and grace. She continued working for as long as she physically could, pushing through fear and uncertainty while still showing up for her family.

Now, after months of doing everything she could on her own, Rene needs our community’s help.

Rene recently completed the first of several surgeries and is awaiting the final pathology report to determine what additional treatments—such as chemotherapy, radiation, hormone blockers, or aromatase inhibitors—will be required. Until then, all she can do is heal, wait, and prepare for the next stage of treatment.

If you are able, please consider donating to help Rene through this extremely difficult time. Your support will directly help her stay afloat while she focuses on healing.

Many of you may know Rene from the Atlanta Swing Dance Club, the American Legion Post 201, or the local salsa dancing community. She has always been someone who shows up for others; now, she needs others to show up for her.

Rene’s Situation

Rene has been diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma grade 2. On December 1st, she underwent the first of at least two surgeries: a bilateral mastectomy. Her medical team cannot finalize a treatment plan until the full pathology report is completed, so the exact course of follow-up therapy remains unknown.

Because of the double mastectomy, Rene is currently unable to work. She has no sick leave, and her recovery prevents her from lifting her arms overhead or carrying luggage. Her doctors have restricted her from air travel for at least six weeks, which is essential for her job. This restriction will apply again after her second surgery, expected around March 2026, depending on her healing.

Without the ability to travel Rene’s employer can only schedule her for part-time hours—far from enough to cover mortgage, food, medical bills, and basic living expenses.

On top of this, Rene is supporting her two youngest children through college:

Her son, a sophomore studying mathematics

Her daughter, a junior majoring in medicinal chemistry

Both are working as Teacher Assistants to help with their own expenses, but Rene still carries much of the financial responsibility for the youngest daughter.

Rene has shown extraordinary courage, but she shouldn’t have to face this alone.

Your donation—no matter the size—will help provide stability during a time filled with uncertainty, pain, and mounting medical costs.

Thank you for helping us support a wonderful mother, friend, and community member as she fights to regain her health.