First: Comment from friends: We  cajoled, encouraged, prodded, threatened, made faces, made jokes, got mad, reasoned with and finally convinced Kate to appeal for funds. Here she is!!

Dear friends, neighbors, strangers, readers;
My name is Kate O'Connor. After I was diagnosed with kidney cancer, I had a partial nephrectomy to remove a large cancerous tumor.  The surgery went very well and the surgeon was able to save most of the kidney. Unfortunately, because the cancer had grown into a vein, it is classified as stage 3. There are 4 stages of this cancer. I feel fine right now. But, I must go for a CT scan every 3 months to see if the rest of my body is still clear, or if I have to go back for more surgery or chemo. This is nerve wracking, yes, but I AM alive and happy to be.

Asking for money is without a doubt one of the most difficult things I  can imagine.  I am (and always have been) employed full time!  I DO have health insurance! BUT, as we all know; our medical system is extraordinarily expensive. Since diagnosis, through tests and hospitalization the medical bills were $30,000.  Thus far, I have paid $6,000, my insurance paid $12,000, and I currently owe $12, 533.97. Other costs were minimal because friends and community provided transportation, food and housing in Fort Bragg, CA and at  UCSF. Each CT scan is estimated at $3,000, with biopsy it becomes $6,000. I  continue to work, I continue to make payments, insurance will pay more as the costs rise. But really, I have no idea how the finances will be taken care of long term. And I do hope to feel well and LIVE ... long term.

I live in an amazing community where people really do help each other. I wish this beautiful gift for everyone in a situation like this. I am aware that the vast majority of people are struggling to make ends meet. That is why it was so hard to agree to use this fund raising campaign. BUT, if I look at it as broadening a loving community of whichI am a member, I can accept being a member in need. THANK YOU for ANY amount!
Kate