Linda’s 4th Cancer Fight is #BreastCancer

My name is Linda Wellborn. Like you I have been through many of life’s struggles, divorce, an estranged child, starting a career after being a stay at home mom, career changes, salary cuts, unexpected house issues and of course losing loved ones.

Perhaps not like you, I have fought cancer three times. Doctors aggressively treated my first cervical cancer diagnosis, with everyone breathing a surprised sigh of relief when we won the very long and hard battle. Thyroid cancer was found during this same time and was treated immediately following. The cervical cancer returned. I arrived for what I thought was an appointment to discuss treatment options, but instead resulted in the doctor telling me to get my bucket list together because I had six months to live. I was devastated and thought I may not seek treatment. My lead doctor, in no uncertain terms, told me that I would seek treatment, I would fight, because if a treatment was in place that meant it worked on someone therefore it could work on me. I’m sharing this in case it helps someone reading this right now. The doctor was right and that was a few years ago. The treatment was long and difficult but we won...again.

Fast forward, through some of those life struggles we all share, to this year. My partner of 16+ years ended our relationship on October 23, 2020. I was completely blindsided, heartbroken, and I am still grieving the loss of the relationship. This change will involve me losing my home, rehoming loved pets, starting over entirely once again.

December 9, 2020 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This will be the 4th time I have to fight cancer. Since then I have been through a whirlwind of tests, scans, biopsies, surgery, and more. All while grieving and attempting to figure out a new life which has now been put on hold in attempt to save my life. Once again, I had to decide if I would go through with the treatment, this time without my partner by my side.

I have never asked for help and have always been a private person. Financially, due to the three cancers, previous job losses for both of us creating significant salary changes amongst other struggles and surprises over the last few years, I had to declare bankruptcy last year for us, my ex and myself, to get by. I have always been a hopeful person until now, trying to see the bright side in every situation. I am no longer that person, although I am really trying. I am no longer the person that is afforded the luxury of being private and not asking for help, even though I prefer it and would much rather help others, this is why I’m starting a Go Fund Me Campaign.

I’m sorry, I didn’t  know what dollar amount to choose as a goal, so I choose a random amount. I want to say that all donations, no matter the amount, will be truly appreciated. I want you to know that I mean that. Your support will help with the following things including but not limited to:

Mortgage; The mortgage increased in December.

Utilities; I cannot afford the mortgage and utilities on my own. Your support may allow me to do so. 

Food

House & Pet Supplies: A few pets will be rehomed, (although I have had no luck so far and have never done anything like this before), I will try to keep the others. One pet that will stay no matter what, is our beloved golden retriever Teddy. He is 11 years old and takes thyroid medication along with multiple pain medications for his hips and knees. These medications are quite expensive. 

Medical Bills:   I have never asked for any help or assistance with the previous 3 cancers whatsoever, but will be pursuing all options this time.

Self Improvement

Living Expenses

Needed House Repairs; For example there is no flooring on one floor of the house. Years ago, the carpet needed removed due to age and allergies. We planned to replace it a few months later, then I was diagnosed with the first of four cancers beginning the financial downward spiral. A pipe burst in the basement on Christmas Eve 2020 adding  to this current nightmare, and I will need to pay a large deductible.

Car Repairs

Wig; If insurance will not cover it because I’m going to lose my hair again. My hair just got long. After so many years of health issues, I just started to look like myself again, older but myself. The constant ringing in my ears will return, along with the neuropathy and more chemo side effects.

Any & All Life Changes

Goal
The treatment begins next week and will last one full year. I would like to remain in my home if possible during this time. It would allow me time to get through treatment, more time to look at what a new life will look like, all while keeping Teddy comfortable at home as he cannot do stairs. My doctor has told me the goal is a cure so I’m choosing to believe him, even though I’m not currently in fight mode.

I have been brutally honest in this request for help, sharing things that I am not comfortable sharing even with close friends let alone the public. I want to be clear that while the goal is to stay in my home while seeking treatment, money may be used for a move if possible. I am an honest person, and want to be forthcoming with where your support may go. Basically it will go to me surviving physically and mentally.

I have two amazing adult sons, a wonderful daughter-in-law and a beautiful granddaughter. I am grateful for and love each and every one of them. They are all offering unparalleled support, even flying home to distract and support me over Christmas. I have tried my best to be a good mother, but unfortunately I seem to never, ever get a break from problems and that does create a cloud over me if you will. I am thankful for my compassionate friends and their kindness as well. I really try to be a good person. I’m grateful. I try to support and help others. It’s scary to share your life in public and I’m embarrassed to do so, but this time I am without my partner and I cannot fix this situation, it is too much. I do not want my legacy to be that no matter how hard I tried the constant problems prevailed, and in turn I was a burden to my family. As parents it is heartwarming to see your children do well and we want to be there for them in whatever they may need in life, not the reverse.

Thank you for your consideration in supporting me. If you are not in a position to donate, I appreciate your positive thoughts and prayers. ❤️