Patricia Junqueira

My name is Elaine and I am raising money for health coach and physical trainer Patricia Junqueira. She has been diagnosed with a rare tumor.. Those of you in the triathlete circle know she is a winner and needs our help getting over the finish line. The stress of the bills are starting to take their toll and every little bit helps.

copied from Patricia’s Facebook page:

You may be wondering why I haven't posted any sunrise, bike or run photo?

On December 4th, I was swimming after run 13 miles, as I always do, and I felt I was going to pass out. After going to the Urgent Care, 2x to my doctor, 2x to the ER and 5 days in the hospital, I finally was diagnosed w a tumor named Pheochromocytomas, it is a very rare tumor on the top of the adrenal gland. It makes the gland to produce more hormones, increasing the blood pressure, heart rate, tremor, pallor, palpitation, doom feeling. When the BP is too high I feel I'm dying, not fun. When I got to the Er my blood pressure was 200/105. I have been sick since then, can't work or exercise. I barely get to the kitchen. You can imagine how hard this is for an ironman triathlete to lay down all day. I need surgery to remove the tumor and regain my health.

I want to THANK YOU all the people that has been helping me in the last month. Casey Merritt , my twin Claudia Junqueira and Ian, to take me to the doctors, exams, hospital, bring food to me and make me company while in the hospital. Also, my super friend Gail Arnold Norman, who is a doctor and my dear triathlete train partner who I called several times because I felt I was dying and didn't know what to do. As soon as I was diagnosed she immediately talked with Dr. Jim Norman, her husband and he immediately scheduled me w the best adrenal gland surgeon at his beautiful and modern facility: the Norman/Clayton Endocrine Institute in Tampa. I'm beyond thankful for you two.

Also, all my friends,like Lani Grano , my triathletes friends and so many friends and clients and a especial shout for the Forerunners group that offered me help, text me and care for me. I have wonderful people around me and I'm beyond thanksful for all of you ❤️

When you feel really bad and have people to help you, things get much easier

I had so many wonderful doctors at the hospital that quick diagnosed me, even with a rare tumor and symptoms. The nurses were so kind and attentions, they are all going to heaven. I'm meeting the surgeon tomorrow at Dr.Norman endocrine Institute in Tampa, and hopefully have surgery on January 17th, our birthday. It will be my present, regain my health to be able to go back to work and train triathlon that I so much love.

Thank you to all of you, I appreciate you all ❤️

Ps: I was well know at the hospital as the vegetables lady