Overcoming Cancer Against All Odds

Hi, my name is Lupe, and this is my story.

This past year has been challenging for me. I moved from Montana to San Diego in the year 2021. I separated from my husband and had to spend all my savings to come to California, where all my kids and family are. I was transferred from Montana Costco to La Mesa, Ca. Costco. I was given very few hours because I was a new transfer, even though I had already been with the company for two years. I was struggling to pay for my studio rent, gasoline and food. As the prices of gasoline when up, I requested La Mesa Costco to please transfer me to Chula Vista Costco because I was spending too much gas money and, as a part-time worker, couldn't make enough for all the bills. This process took far too long, but I was delighted when Chula Vista made the transfer. Chula vista made it happen and gave me the hours that I wanted, and I was finally able to make ends meet until my nightmare started. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in May of 2022. I did chemotherapy for over five months. The cancer doctors require me to have a mastectomy surgery; however, my Costco benefits have been canceled this month, right in time for the holidays. This news was the thing that broke me into tears; scared to think I could not complete my healing process. Breast surgery is painful and scary enough, and I will still need radiation treatment before this is over. I already have medical bills that are way above the amount I'm getting from a temporary disability. I am afraid of not finishing my treatment due to insufficient funds, and no one can ever preplan for cancer. My friends and family know I am not the type to ask for much, but the burden is heavier than I could have imagined.

So I'm asking everyone to dig deep and pitch in by giving what you can right now and considering a commitment to a recurring contribution. Thank you for anything that you're able to contribute towards this effort. Supporting me in this manner will mean more to me than one could ever know. Relief from debt and the overabounding love from every person I've met will remind me to shine brighter even on my darkest days.