On July 26th I was admitted to Lehigh Valley Hospital after going on my lunch break for belly pain I knew as “colitis”. After many days in the hospital, tests, scans and scopes later, I was told as I was awaking from anesthesia that they couldn’t finish the colonoscopy bc there was a mass that was causing a blockage that even the scope couldn’t get past. “Mass”. It echoed through my head. Next, teams of doctors, surgical associates and straight faces with long white coats entered my room and by their looks I knew it was serious. Cancer. This “mass” was most definitely cancer and needed to come out right away. On August 8th I underwent major surgery to remove the mass as well as resection my colon. 3lap sites, and scar of 28 staples run from my breasts to my bikini line where they performed this 6 hour surgery. I’m currently using an ileostomy as my colon heals. I have a visiting nurse 2x/week who comes to change my stoma appliance. Today I learned that it is stage 3 and I will need chemo for 6 months. Although I did get short term disability, that is only till September 19th and it’s only part of what my normal income would be. For 21+ years my husband was the bread winner and sole provider for our finances. As many know, he decided to leave his family (my kids and I) 2 years ago to pursue his high school sweetheart. Leaving me in our marital house with all the bills that go along with it. It’s already been a huge STRUGGLE however I refused to throw my hands up and I did what I had to do. I had just gained a part-time job that was to start right at the time of diagnosis. Unfortunately now I don’t have a choice. I can not work as I fight this battle that lies ahead. I’m doing as much as I can with the little means I have thus far. I’m asking for your prayers and any little bit of help you can offer. Any and all donations will be used for medical or home expenses that fall behind from lack of work. I do believe in Karma and what you give you too shall receive. I promise to do my part in giving back whenever I can as well. I appreciate you all and the texts, phone calls, messages are what keep my spirits up. Love to all. xoxo

Nikki ❤️