Hi, my name is Erica, and I’m reaching out to you with a heavy heart to ask for support for my sister, Krista, as she faces the most difficult battle of her life.

In late August 2024, Krista started feeling unwell, and after months of fighting for answers, she was finally diagnosed on October 8th with a rare and devastating condition called pyometra. Despite her persistence in advocating for herself, the road to treatment was long and delayed. On October 31st, she was finally seen by a specialist and scheduled for surgery. On November 12th, Krista underwent an emergency hysterectomy. Although the surgery was difficult, she was initially told everything went well, and there were no further concerns. But as it often happens, the truth was much darker. The biopsy results showed something no one expected—something far more dangerous.

On December 2nd, Krista received the heartbreaking news that she has invasive squamous cell carcinoma. The cancer had already spread, and it was detected far too late due to significant oversights in her care. Since then, she’s been urgently referred to an oncologist in Vancouver, and plans for treatment have begun. On December 27th, Krista will undergo more testing in Kelowna, followed by radiation and chemotherapy starting January 15th at Kelowna General Hospital. This is just the beginning of a long and difficult journey, and I know it’s going to take an emotional and financial toll on her, and on all of us.

Krista had just begun to build her dream landscaping and yard maintenance business, Freedom Yard Maintenance, working harder than anyone I know to establish a reputation for quality work and a commitment to helping others. Many of you may know her from her services. She has always gone the extra mile, giving freely of her time to those in need, even when she had so much on her plate already. But as a self-employed woman, Krista has no sick days or benefits to lean on. She is facing this fight without the safety net so many of us take for granted.

Our family will do everything in our power to support her, but we can’t do it alone. Our mom, a devoted ER nurse, is once again putting her own career on hold to care for one of her daughters. She did this for me 23 years ago when I was diagnosed with the same type of cancer. I was in my 20s and it nearly took my life. Our mom stayed by my side for months while I underwent the same intense treatments Krista will face, and seeing her have to relive this all over again, with Krista, is breaking my heart.

Krista is stronger than anyone I know, but right now, she needs to focus on healing. She cannot, and should not, have to worry about finances or bills while fighting for her life. I am asking, from the deepest part of my heart, for anyone who is able to donate—even a small amount—to please help. Every dollar counts and will make a profound difference in Krista’s journey to recovery. Your support, no matter how big or small, will give her one less thing to worry about as she focuses on getting better and coming out of this stronger than ever.

The funds raised here will go directly to Krista to help with her living expenses, travel, and lodging during her treatments, and will also help offset the loss of income for our mom, who will be accompanying Krista on this difficult journey.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love, support, and generosity. It means more than you can imagine