My Sister's Fight against Cancer

Support Wendy’s Battle Against Cancer

A bad hand was dealt for my sister Wendy, a 62-year-old single mother to her daughter Rachel, who has faced numerous health challenges throughout her life. Her medical journey began at the young age of 7 when she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. At the time of this diagnosis, the treatment required the complete removal of her thyroid, leading to over a year of recovery, significant disruptions in her childhood, and created lifelong health issues.

Fast forward to age 17, Wendy developed type 1 diabetes making her fully insulin-dependent. For 45 years, she has bravely managed this condition, constantly adapting her life to its demands.

More terrible news struck in 2008 when Wendy found a lump in her breast, resulting in a breast cancer diagnosis. She underwent a double mastectomy, radiation and chemotherapy, which combined with her diabetes, left her fully disabled and dependent on Medicare. Even with the physical and emotional toll this took on her life, Wendy remained hopeful and resilient, staying cancer-free until recently.

In November 2023, Wendy began suffering with severe rib and back pain. Despite extensive tests, doctors struggled to diagnose the underlying issue and the pain continued to worsen. By February of 2024, the pain was so severe she could barely walk. After a fall, and a visit to the ER, we were given the devastating news when a large, hidden tumor was discovered behind her T5 vertebrae and spinal cord. A neurosurgeon successfully removed the tumor, and later diagnosing Wendy with Multiple Myeloma. Without this intervention, she risked permanent paralysis.

Following spinal surgery, where rods and screws were added to support her spine, Wendy required extensive rehabilitation to relearn how to walk. While awaiting radiation therapy for her Multiple Myeloma at this rehab facility, she suffered a fall, breaking her shoulder and elbow. This required emergency surgery, where more rods and screws were used to support her two breaks and further delayed her cancer treatment.

Rachel, Wendy’s 26-year-old daughter, has made significant sacrifices to support her mother. She took FMLA leave and moved from Pennsylvania, back to New Jersey to care for Wendy, who can no longer live independently or care for her dog, Riley. Rachel has put her career and personal life on hold to support her mother.

Wendy faces a long and challenging journey with lifelong treatment for Multiple Myeloma and ongoing physical rehabilitation to regain her mobility and independence. Her strength and determination continue to inspire us every day.

Our goal for this GoFundMe campaign is to assist Wendy and Rachel in covering the extensive medical expenses not covered by insurance, including physical and emotional therapy, transportation to medical appointments, food assistance, and other living expenses. Your support will help ease the financial burden during this challenging time.

We are deeply grateful of the outpouring of love and support from our community. Your generosity will make a significant difference in Wendy and Rachel’s lives as they navigate this difficult journey. I will use this page to update on her progress as she moves through these next phases. Luckily, we are surrounded by so many who share their love with us and embody a generous spirit to help those in need.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

Susan Zeiri, Wendy’s sister