Helping Leissa Fight Breast Cancer

Our friend, co-worker and single mom, Leissa was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, (Breast Cancer), in November 2016. In December, Leissa was advised that the double mastectomy was optional, and possibly not a necessary procedure. Like many that have faced this frightening choice before her, Leissa decided to pursue the double mastectomy as it offered her some peace of mind that she would not be facing potential further complications in the future. Frustratingly, in January Leissa was told that she had a more aggressive form of cancer than was initially suspected – this has meant she would face both chemotherapy treatment as well as radiation, despite going through with the double Mastectomy. Leissa is now nearing the end of her chemotherapy treatments and is looking forward to a short break before starting the radiation.

Leissa has worked as a Lunchroom Supervisor for approximately 10 years at our community elementary school. Due to the parameters of her position’s benefits, Leissa was only eligible for Short Term Disability coverage – this ended in May 2017. While receiving chemotherapy, Leissa is immunosuppressed, thus she is unable to work as she must limit exposure to others in order to avoid potential health complications. As a result of her unemployment, Leissa and her son are now living below the poverty line with continually mounting costs.  Meeting everyday living expenses is no longer possible for Leissa, and she is now utilizing the food bank to meet some of her basic needs. The pressure of the illness, combined with the current financial situation, has created a tremendous amount of pressure and stress for Leissa as she worries about the future for her son.

Leissa has lived her life following the philosophy of “do unto others, as you would have done unto yourself”. Leissa has demonstrated this in all areas of her life including how she cares for her lunchroom students for whom she has been responsible for over the last 10 years, (the current students continually ask when she will return). In addition to the students, Leissa has faithfully provided care for the numerous pets she has rescued over the years. Finally, and certainly most importantly, Leissa has shown unfailing dedication to her son by selflessly putting his need’s before her own on every occasion.

Please consider helping us care for Leissa the way she deserves to be cared for. Any funds raised will cover the expenses brought on by her many health related appointments/treatments, travel to these appointments, and day-to-day living expenses when necessary.