Hope for Gail: A Journey to Healing from Cancer

Dear Friends, Family, and Compassionate Hearts,

In the spirit of love and solidarity, we come together to share the courageous journey of our beloved mother, Gail Pezzuto. Gail is facing a challenging battle against stage four pancreatic cancer, and we are reaching out to our community for collective support in her fight against this relentless disease.

On January 5, 2023, Gail received the devastating diagnosis of stage four pancreatic cancer. This news came after a previous battle with lung carcinoid tumors, which she had been managing successfully until late 2022, when new spots on her lung led to the discovery of an egg-sized tumor on her pancreas. This unexpected turn of events has posed not only emotional challenges for Gail, but has also upended the lives of her husband, Jim, and their entire family.

After the diagnosis, the outpouring of support from friends and family, including those in the medical community who offered suggestions on innovative treatments, has been overwhelmingly positive. It has inspired Gail and her husband Jim to explore every avenue, leaving no stone unturned in their quest for answers and effective treatment. In February, Gail began the rigorous journey of palliative chemotherapy, displaying unparalleled strength and bravery as she began her fight.

Understanding the limitations of palliative chemotherapy, Jim, unwavering in his dedication to Gail's healing, sought alternative options. Recently, they were introduced to Dr. Gary Onik, fondly known as "Dr. Hope." Dr. Onik specializes in using immunotherapy to treat metastatic cancer, providing a beacon of hope for patients like Gail with limited alternatives.

Following a comprehensive evaluation of Gail's latest scans, Dr. Onik has identified her as an excellent candidate for a groundbreaking procedure called "Cryo-intratumoral immunotherapy." This treatment holds the promise of a potential cure for Gail, offering a lifeline beyond palliative care.

While Dr. Onik's medications and instruments are FDA-approved, the innovative nature of the procedure places it off-label, leaving it uncovered by Jim and Gail's health insurance plans. This unforeseen obstacle adds a significant financial burden to an already challenging situation.

How will these funds help Gail?

Your generous contributions will provide the financial means for Gail to undergo the innovative Cryo-intratumoral immunotherapy. These funds will cover medical expenses and travel costs associated with this potentially life-saving procedure, offering Gail a chance at a cure.

What treatments will Gail be going through?

Gail will be undergoing Cryo-intratumoral immunotherapy, a groundbreaking treatment facilitated by Dr. Gary Onik, with the potential to cure her cancer and provide hope for a brighter future.

What are the expected costs of everything?

We anticipate the total cost of Gail’s treatment, including the medical procedure and travel expenses, to be $80,000. We understand the importance of transparency and honesty when accepting charitable donations, and as we progress in this journey, we will provide detailed updates on the allocation of funds.

Everyone who has met Gail knows that she is the embodiment of generosity, having dedicated her life to others without ever seeking anything in return. Now, in her time of need, we invite you to join us in giving back to this incredible mother and grandmother who has touched so many lives, and who so many people love!

Your support, both financial and through prayers, will not only ease the financial burden on Gail and Jim but will also contribute to making Gail's journey from palliative care to a promising cure a reality. Thank you for being a source of strength and hope in Gail's life.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Michael and Stephanie McKenna