My sister's fight against cervical cancer!

Update: Sandy passed away in her sleep 6/9/2023

It’s taken me some time to do this, to ask for help! Met with my therapist last week and she said “just because you’re strong you don’t have to do it all, do things until you break, ask for help.”

I’ve been hesitant to share such a personal moment and to put it on paper means it’s getting one step closer to what I know is reality. The reality is, my 51 year old sister has been diagnosed with cervical cancer. In the last 11 weeks she has been in the ICU for 3 weeks, 2 blood transfusions, 2 tubes attached to her back, and weighs roughly 65 lbs. In waiting for the lovely healthcare system to assist us, the cancer quickly turned from stage 3 to stage 4. The doctors have lost all hope, they are afraid the chemo treatment will kill her. She’s currently battling a sepsis infection, which has completely weakened her immune system and delayed the chemo process. Doctors said this is the best she’ll be and her quality of life will not change much.

Arnel and I have taken on more financial responsibilities than we can handle. We thought we could do it all and keep everything to ourselves. Truth is, we can’t. We’re financially in over our heads. I’m emotionally almost at my breaking point worrying about the cost of everything and of course counting down the time.

In this moment, as I fight back every tear drop, I’m accepting reality, all of it! My sister will never feel the ground again, she will never be able to walk again, stand on her own, or use the bathroom without someone's help, and will spend her last days on an uncomfortable bed staring at the walls in her room. She’s requested to see the beach one last time which means I would have to carry her like a baby out of the car, push her in wheelchair, and show strength as she holds my hand. It’s a crazy feeling having your loved one so fragile in your arms. I’ve kept up a positive attitude and tons of smiles when I’m around her, but the last few days have been rough. Nothing like a reality check when changing someone’s diaper, especially when it’s your sister.

The money raised will allow us to catch up on bills, and make her feel as comfortable as possible as we help her transition. There’s so much I want to say, but I’m at a loss for words and I don’t want to post or share this because it means this is it, I have to face reality. And sharing this part of my life is so intimate, but here it is!

Death is something we all have in common; it’s guaranteed. Life is to be measured by “moments,” not “time.” Travel the world, be kind to each other, spend nights with your friends talking about nothing and everything at the same time. Live a life that you can look back on and be proud of.

Thank you in advance for the love and support.

With Love,

Kiki Sin