Nina's Recovery

MeliSsa Hessney Masters is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Nina Foster.

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This picture [above] was taken almost 5 years ago - one week after our dear friend Nina received the devastating news, "You have invasive lobular breast cancer”. Nina was 50 years old and says she had never felt better or healthier in her life.

Nina describes how her husband John and daughter Lily put her in the car and headed for the ocean after her diagnosis. There, Nina gained clarity from the expansive sea waters, grounding from the beach sand, and strength and perseverance from the salty air. With the unwavering help of family and friends, Nina did get through it - eleven trying months of surgery, recovery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Our friend says she summoned more grit and grace than she ever thought possible.

Soon after, Nina's sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and was given a genetic test before treatment. She had a mutated gene and was treated with that in mind. Nina was then tested and found to share the same gene.

On February 14, 2019 this means another surgery for Nina : a prophylactic mastectomy.

Our goal is to raise funds to help Nina with expenses during her 6+ week recovery. We want Nina to be able to truly REST and allow her body to heal during this critical time without worrying about living expenses or lost wages while she's unable to work.

Any funds raised beyond our goal will be put towards Nina's mounting medical bills and associated expenses, including travel to and from Boston for medical appointments.

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From Nina: "I encourage all women to be super aware of your bodies -
not ALL breast cancer feels like a 'pea' in a self exam... there can be other indicators- dimpling etc... Trust your instinct, and please if you or anyone you know gets a diagnosis, request genetic testing before your treatment plan is made! I have been feeling like I needed to share this experience - I was so in the dark before - thinking I knew everything I needed ... so if this can help inform any of you lovely ladies, I’m thrilled.I’m so grateful to have found out even if it means another major surgery now. Again my awesome support team is in place and holding me in so much love and intention❤️ There are no words for the love I have for them."
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Thank you for your kindness and support of our dear friend and flower community maven, Nina!