Paying it forward to Charlene

Hello,

Our names are Corrina Fahey, Laura Dwyer-Haraga, and Kelly Ryan. Thank you for taking the time to read this. In recent months, we received bad news that so many dread to hear. Our dear friend and Corrina's younger sister, Charlene Bradbury (Fahey), was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer. A tumour was found in her bowel that was nearly obstructing it entirely, and cancerous spots were discovered on her liver and lung, as well, showing the cancer had metastasized.

Charlene is originally from Carbonear and currently lives in Upper Island Cove. She's 52 years young, a devoted wife to Wade, a mother of two beautiful children Olivia and Niki, a caring daughter to her mother Rose who lives with dementia and a registered nurse to patients of almost three decades. She’s delivered thousands of babies with her two hands and held the hands of thousands of mothers during her career. She's an endlessly nurturing, selfless, and caring person. She is respected and loved by all her patients, colleagues, friends, and family. There are countless people praying for the best for her and we welcome all of your prayers and loving support.

This week Charlene underwent bowel reconstruction surgery to remove the part of her bowel with the tumour. The surgery went well but she has a long road ahead of her. She will be recovering from this surgery for six weeks and, following this, she will have to start chemotherapy. Due to her condition, Charlene will not be able to work for the foreseeable future. As hers is the main income of the household—her husband has been unable to work for the last 22 years due to multiple heart and stroke factors and diabetic complications—Charlene has carried the financial burden of covering the majority of these medications, all the while supporting their two children while they continue their education and seek employment. All factors lead to an unfortunate financial strain and worry for her. In addition, Charlene incurred a work related injury that required surgery and an extensive recovery time which used all of her available sick and vacation time, eliminating this option for assistance to financially carry her through this new challenge.

Charlene is so empathic and has given so much to everyone and has cared for so many her entire life we want to help and give back to her. We hope to lessen the financial burden and help alleviate that so she can concentrate on her healing and wellbeing and not the financial aspects during this difficult time.

If you have anything to give at the present time to help support Charlene and lessen the financial strain on the family it would be deeply appreciated. If not, even just sharing this fundraiser link would be so helpful.

Please keep our dear friend and sister in your prayers as she recovers from this surgery and continues to fight this horrible disease.

Sincerely with our heartfelt and deepest appreciation,

Corrina, Laura and Kelly

*This fundraiser was approved by Charlene and organized by her sister Corrina, and lifelong friends Laura and Kelly.