Nurses Get Cancer, Too: A Cure for Carlotta

Who I Am: Becky Alexander. We became friends 16 years ago when we were new nurses working telemetry at Saint Joseph Hospital. I started this page because I do what I want.

Who She Is: Carlotta McCullar. Wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend. And a nurse who hails from telemetry, ICU, cath lab, IR, and radiology. She's not going to give you the recipe for her homemade pull candy, but she'll bring some to share. She's the soundboard for your bad day. The voice of reason one minute and YOLO the next. She has Carly Simon on her workout playlist?? But, wait. I'm getting distracted.

What Went Down: After spending the past several years assisting in radiology procedures (including biopsies), she found herself on the other end of the knife. And the news? It wasn't good.

What We Know: Ductal carcinoma of the breast. Invasive. 18mm. Multiple "spots". The evolving plan is for urgent mastectomy, most likely followed by chemotherapy.

What She Can't Do: Talk about it. Say the word "cancer". Answer questions. Think too far ahead.

Here's the thing: She is a part-time employee with limited benefits/minimum coverage. Although she has worked full-time hours for years, there is a real concern regarding cost of multiple surgeries, in-patient care, cost of treatments (which can run in the thousands per treatment), subsequent follow-ups, genetic testing, imaging, physician services fees, and unpaid time off work for treatment and recovery.

WHAT I'M ASKING: Carlotta is planning on working as much as she can throughout this entire process--a testament to her grit and tenacity. I know many of you understand the resources it takes to run a home. That coupled with the expense of ongoing medical care (for oncology, no less!) can interfere with a person's ability to cope, recover, and heal. There are so many people who love and care about her. This is an opportunity to show your support in a way that can make a real difference. Thank you. ❤️