Breast Cancer: Shea's New Normal

Absolutely nothing in the world can prepare you for a cancer diagnosis; especially when you don't fit "the statistics." My name is Shalaiah; affectionately know by many as Shea; I am 28 years old and on June 16, 2017; I was diagnosed with High Grade Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (Triple Negative). Being diagnosed with a rare and most aggressive form of breast cancer at my age; was extremely overwhelming to me at first... nothing about this was normal; but with much prayer; support from my friends and family; and most importantly my driving force; my 10 year old son, Christian; I have learned to accept my diagnosis as my "new normal!" I don't consider this as a battle; nor do I regard it as a fight; strictly because with both a winner has to be produced, and I will not give Cancer that Option! Instead; I'd like to think I'm on a healing journey...I win! Since my diagnosis; my doctors worked very hard to assign staging; after 6 inconclusive biopsies and a partial mastectomy; my 8 cm tumor was categorized an advanced stage 3 cancer. With this information; as well as my triple negative subtype; my team decided to move aggressively with weekly chemotherapy treatments over the next several months. During this time; unfortunately; I will be unable to work my full time job which is the primary source of income for me and my son. As you all know; no matter the situation life doesn't stop.... neither does bills! Breast cancer can take a financial toll; the cost of insurance bills, medical trials, alternative treatments, and in my case, experimental drugs; all add up especially while on unpaid leave...
Currently, I have been relying on my family to assist with what they can; but even with their best efforts it is still not enough. I've been a resident of Houston, Texas for a little over a year now, and currently receiving care at MD Anderson Cancer Center; which is miles away from my family who are all in Louisiana... With the frequency of my treatments; it is in my best interest to maintain my residency here in Texas.
I'm simply asking anyone who is willing and able to donate any amount to assist me with maintaining my "new normal." The cost of care and living expenses poses a tremendous burden; especially when you're a single mother, primary breadwinner; and cancer was not in your plans.
I'm sincerely trying to heal... and desperately wanting to LIVE; your donation of any amount will not only be greatly appreciated, but will eliminate stress and allow me focus on my goal...
Tomorrow isn't promised to anyone; however the hope of seeing another day is Everything to me...
As I told my doctors... When you see me; see who needs me...winning is beyond me...Winning is all about my son who needs his mother...
I promised Christian his mommy does not have the type of cancer that you die...
Please assist me in keeping that promise!
God is still Able..
"Strength like no other and it reaches to me!"
#CancerWeak
#SheaStrong