My mother, Kelly Garcia (or “Mom”) is the strongest, smartest, most inspirational, and most supportive person in the world. She’s also fairly stubborn. This is why I believe, deep down, she will beat her recent breast cancer diagnosis. This stubborn nature and her desire to never burden others is also the likely cause of her reluctance to ask for help. So I’m raising my hand for her.

Kelly has worked every day since she was 12 years old. After a lifetime of hard work — including 17 years of working in public education — she was finally able to retire.

However, the past week after going in for a routine exam, a mass was discovered on her chest. After a biopsy, it has been confirmed to be Stage 1 breast cancer — that has spread to the surrounding duct tissue. Thankfully, the cancer has not metastasized, but Kelly will have to undergo surgery, radiation and possibly chemotherapy.

After her retirement, Kelly worked part-time at the Denver Museum and later accepted a position with the local Catholic elementary school to work part-time with the kids. However, since being diagnosed, she will not be able to take on this new opportunity based on the upcoming surgery, treatment, and recovery schedule.

She has insurance, although it is high deductible insurance. As a result, I’m here asking you to join me in assisting Kelly (my mom), her husband Vince, and her dog Gio in providing relief from the costs associated with cancer treatment, which have both a direct and indirect effect on their lives. Even relieving just a portion of the financial burden that may come as result of this recent diagnosis would mean the world!

While this news is heartbreaking, I know my Mom will fight and beat this thing. Until that day comes, I’m asking for your help in giving her the best chance to beat this cancer, to be healthy and happy, to be able to experience the birth of her future grandchild(ren), help raise them (and Gio), and to enjoy the long and fulfilling life her decades of hard work, selflessness and kindness to others has earned her.

Thank you so much for your time, your compassion, prayers, love, and donations (no matter how big or small). My Mom means the world to me, and your support will mean the world to her!