Help us help, our dear friend, Patty

Let me give you a bit of her story, to which so many are not even aware ;) see, Patty is very independent, and has always been more of a giver than one who receives - but this is time for her to receive!

Patty has been battling cancer, she was diagnosed with stage  IV colon cancer in Nov 2011, and was in remission until, at a follow-up in March, 2016, she was advised she had peritoneal cancer, and had 1-2 years to live. 

She was told that the cancer had spread from her colon, to her abdomen, and it was like tossing sand in her belly-she had many cancerous implants all around her abdomen. She started chemotherapy in May 2016, and in July at a follow-up, the cancer had grown by 20%, and she was not a candidate for the one surgery that could potentially add many years to her life.  Her chemo regimen was changed, and she underwent chemo until 9 Dec. 

Patty continued to work as long as she could, saving the lives of others ironically ;), until Aug; and this amazing mother of two decided it was time to spend her every moment with her children and her family. 

On December 30th, Patty underwent  what some call the  "mother of all surgeries," the most aggressive form of treatment for those with advanced abdominal cancer. Cytoreductive surgery combined with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC)  is a targeted treatment approach where tumors that have spread through the lining of the abdomen are removed and then heated chemotherapy is perfused throughout the abdomen, with the intent of killing any remaining cancer cells that may be present after all visible disease has been removed surgically.

Patty was more at peace prior to the surgery than I had seen her in a very long time. She had her prayer notebook, and knew that this was in God's hands.  Complete peace, and for that I am thankful. 

As you can imagine, this surgery has been, and will be very taxing on Patty's body, and recovery will be long-term. She is also required to remain in Houston for several weeks following the surgery, to ensure her healing and safety. 

What we are doing is raising money so Patty and her family can focus on her recovery, and not worry about the lack of income, bills, cost of surgery/recovery, etc.  No one can prepare for the financial burden of something so life-changing...

Patty has a special place in our hearts, and she is definitely not one to ask for help, she is always the one giving, and doing for others. But any and all support is very much appreciated! 

If you have it in your heart to give a little or a lot, she would appreciate it beyond measure.  I know she will likely be posting updates regarding her recovery as soon as she is able!