As many community members already know, Ms. Val was diagnosed with breast cancer this past February. Because of complications involving a benign, secondary tumor in her chest and a lack of thoracic surgeons in the area, she is seeking treatment in Maryland while staying with her sister.  While she is receiving the best care possible, this choice means she will be away from her beloved St John community.

Her treatment plan consists of chemotherapy, breast surgery, radiation and additional therapies.  All of this will be followed by surgery to remove the tumor in her chest. We are optimistic about her prognosis but it will be a difficult journey.

Being away from St John means Ms. Val will not be able to work during her treatment. St John Cancer Fund and the American Cancer Society have already generously donated funds which Ms. Val has used to pay for her travel to the states and St Thomas. The money raised from this GoFund Me Campaign will help Ms. Val cover costs of care not fully covered by insurance, such as co-pays, lab work, biopsies, palliative care and living expenses. 

Ms. Val has happily given 23 years in service to St John. She would never ask for herself so we are asking on her behalf. Please help support this kind and generous member of our community.

If you would like to reach out to Ms Val, she is in great spirits and loves receiving messages or cards from all her friends near and far!