I will beat lymphoma again!
Donation protected
My cancer story
Many of my clients and friends may not know that I have had non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma for 12 years, on and off. I received radiation the first time I had this disease and was in remission for 4 years. In May 2018, I found out I had it or the second time. I went through chemotherapy last year for 6 months and went into remission in October 2018. Luckily, I was able to work through my treatments. It was a great relief that I had savings to help with the steep medical bills! I celebrated with a bargain-priced bucket list trip to Australia in February 2019, little dreaming of what was to come.
Where I am now
Unfortunately, upon returning home in March, my oncologist confirmed that the lymphoma had returned. The tumors have repopulated in the same spots, even blocking the pathway from my left kidney to my bladder. I was devastated to learn that the next step would be urology surgery to correct this blockage, followed by 3 rounds of hospitalized chemotherapy. More shocking was the news that following that six-week journey I would be facing bone marrow transplantation. When this treatment begins I will have very limited interaction with the outside world as my environment must remain safe so my immunity can grow and fight. I intend to stay in my home, barring visits from everyone but my insurance elected care team and those of you that can help with injections, food delivery and (hopefully) dog walks! I am very confident and very blessed that I am receiving the best care possible at UCSF and Stanford.
Why I have begun this GoFundMe
My treatment schedule is due to begin in June 2019. Once the treatment starts, I will not be able to work and earn any money until (fingers crossed) October 2019. Those of you close to me know what a workaholic I am, and how much I love doing what I do. Being out of work for what is now stated as the required 5 months is surreal. Sadly, as an independent contractor, I am not eligible for SSI, disability or any other aid, until I have been out of work for 6-12 months. My savings have been depleted by last year's cancer battle, paying taxes, etc.
Your contributions will help me keep up with basic essentials, like keeping my beloved home, paying for medical bills, food, car and business insurance, household bills and of course, keeping my small dependent, my pup Otis, in kibble and pet walkers. All and any kind of support is welcome, and very much appreciated, especially prayers, advice and emotional support. Without help I am afraid my healing will be second to my fear of losing everything.
Where I am now (update)
My doctors have recently let me know I am eligible for a new therapy, just made available by the FDA on May 29, 2019. I am happy to say at this point the dreaded bone marrow therapy is on hold. I await to see how this new direction succeeds after I have been in back in treatment for 3 months. This new idea is based on more immunotherapy and anti-bodies. This news followed more tests run at both UCSF and Stanford. Cross your fingers and send good thoughts during this time!
Organizer
Mia Cristina Caybut
Organizer
Oakland, CA