Michaela's fight against cancer

On September 7, 2023 Michaela was diagnosed with stage 3, grade 3, triple negative, invasive ductal carcinoma (breast cancer). She started 24 weeks of chemotherapy and immunotherapy infusions on Tuesday, September 26. She will receive chemotherapy and immunotherapy infusions weekly for 12 weeks followed by chemotherapy and immunotherapy infusions every three weeks for another 12 weeks. This will be followed by a double mastectomy, radiation, a full year of immunotherapy infusions every three weeks, possibly more chemotherapy, ovary removal surgery and finally breast reconstruction.

Michaela’s treatment is extremely long and aggressive due to the triple negative status of her cancer cells, a BRACA 1 genetic mutation and her postpartum status.

It is without a doubt that this treatment will be emotionally and financially disruptive for Michaela and her family.

Michaela is surrounded by a a community near and far- from Sweden to Colorado she has people on her team. Michaela has two children, Sylvie 7 and Antoni 2 and a loving and supportive husband Nick. Michaela has dedicated her life to helping others. She is currently the director of the Aspen Youth Center where her level of duty goes above and beyond her job responsibilities. Michaela makes sure that all kids have a safe place to go, have food and clothing, and mental and academic support.

Today, we are raising money to support Michaela and her family with similar supports Michaela has so generously given her whole life.

While insurance covers portions of medical bills, Michaela and her husband will be responsible for paying the remainder of health bills that have already proven to be astonishingly high. Furthermore, while Michaela can receive her chemotherapy and immunotherapy infusions and radiation therapy between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, she will need to travel and stay in Denver for surgeries as well as follow up appointments with her Denver based oncology team. This travel will result in significant added expenses for Michaela and Nick.

Funds will also go towards supporting Michaela and Nick with day to day responsibilities that will become increasingly difficult as Michaela undergoes chemotherapy, surgeries and radiation. For example, child care and household costs.

Lastly, is it so important to recognize mental health during these unprecedented and difficult times so funds raised will also go towards professional support for her family to help navigate the rocky road ahead.

Michaela and Nick’s natural tendency is to give. They give to their community, they give to those in need, they give their time, money and attention. It is our time as a community to follow in their footsteps and support this wonderful family through tough times ahead.

If giving financially is not possible, please reach out for other ways to support Michaela and her family.

Funds will go towards:

1. Medical bills that insurance does not cover

2. Travel to and from medical appointments

3. Therapy for each family member

4. Additional childcare support

5. Additional household cleaning support

6. Any and all costs associated with her cancer treatment and recovery.

With gratitude,

Her loving friends, 

Rachel Sherman and Julie Friedman 

www.caringbridge.org/visit/michaelaidhammar