Hello all! Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. We are so thankful for the heartfelt encouragement from family, friends, and the surrounding community. Words truly could never convey the emotion we feel from the outpouring of support mom has received in the last 10 months. For those who don't know, mom was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer on July 19th, 2021. On August 25th, 2021, she began chemotherapy at Essentia Health in Duluth, with the Mayo Clinic overseeing her care. Mom remarkably worked full-time throughout her chemotherapy, with the team at Hobby Lobby cheering her on every step of the way. Her last chemo was December 1st, 2021. That day was full of emotion as we watched her ring the bell, symbolizing her dedication and perseverance through chemotherapy. On January 11th, 2022, mom started radiation along with having to take a chemo pill every day. She drove to the Essentia building every day, Monday through Friday, for 5 1/2 weeks. She continued to work full-time throughout her radiation as well. After both treatments were complete, we started preparing for the surgeries she would need to undergo. The time between chemo/radiation and her initial surgery was also spent with her healing from all her mind and body had just gone through. Months of nausea, vomiting, cold sensitivity, weakness, fatigue, and utter exhaustion.

On April 8th, 2022, mom had her first surgery. The surgery consisted of removing the cancerous tumor, cancerous lymph nodes, cancerous fallopian tubes, a colon resection, the construction of the ileostomy, and the reconstruction of the rectal muscles. Mom was in the OR for around 7 hours, but the real battle would start in the following days. As many of you know, mom had quite a few complications after surgery, and the post-op complications resulted in an 11-day hospital stay. As you can imagine, the chemotherapy/radiation/hospital bills have caused an enormous financial strain. They have been trying to keep up with the medical bills as they come in, but with mom unable to work at this time, it has become difficult. In 5 weeks, on June 30th, mom will have her second surgery at the Mayo Clinic. This is another big surgery that will require her to be off work.

Mom is known for her work ethic, generosity, and kindness. She takes pride in her service to others and has always been there to lend a helping hand to those in need. The lessons I have taken from her are invaluable, and I strive to be like her in more ways than one. With her in mind, I humbly ask for help as she continues fighting the battle of her life. We are so grateful for any and all help, whether it is in monetary value or continued words of encouragement.

Thank you for following along on mom's journey, for praying, for thinking of her, for taking the time to check in, for all the hand-written cards and letters, and for just being there. You've kept her going through every peak and every valley. <3

-Kelli & family