Please Support Sara's Battle Against Breast Cancer

Our niece, Sara, is an extraordinary person who dedicates herself to helping others, most notably as a first-grade teacher in underserved neighborhoods. Now, Sara needs help. In the fall of 2024, at the age of 36, Sara was diagnosed with both breast cancer and skin melanoma and is currently undergoing treatment.

Sara is the kind of teacher every parent wants for their child. In 2023, she was voted Teacher of the Year by her peers. Her colleagues describe her as “smart, dedicated, dynamic, ambitious, loving, and loads of fun. She goes above and beyond for her students, is involved in every aspect of the school community, and inspires her students to reach their full potential. Her positive, can-do attitude and her refusal to give up never cease to amaze us.” Sara tutors students who need extra support after school, teaches summer school for multilingual learners, volunteers at all of her school’s family engagement events, helps maintain the school garden, and is a mentor to new teachers. She has even organized turkey fundraisers so each of her students can enjoy a special Thanksgiving.

On a personal level, Sara is a shining light in our family. Her eyes sparkle with enthusiasm, and her passion is infectious. She is a favorite aunt to her eight nieces and nephews, organizing cookouts, sleepovers, and even camping in tents. In a word, Sara is a DELIGHT. To know her is to love her.

On October 28, 2024, Sara’s world turned upside down. She was diagnosed with aggressive stage 1 grade 3 invasive ductal breast carcinoma. Just two weeks later, she was also diagnosed with stage 0 skin melanoma. Over the past few months, Sara has undergone multiple biopsies, a lumpectomy, skin cancer excisions, egg retrieval for fertility preservation, port insertion surgery, and two rounds of chemotherapy. Thankfully, her prognosis is promising; however, she still faces two more rounds of chemotherapy, followed by four weeks of radiation.

While Sara’s insurance has covered much of the cost, the financial burden remains significant. As of late February 2025, her out-of-pocket medical bills exceed $25,000. As a single person, the weight of this falls entirely on her shoulders.

Despite the emotional and financial toll, Sara remains positive and optimistic and continues to be the selfless, dedicated person we all know and love. The world needs more people like Sara. We humbly ask you to share this page, send your positive thoughts and prayers, and, if you’re able, consider donating to help cover Sara’s medical expenses. Any contribution will be deeply appreciated!

Sara was only 36 when her breast cancer was detected after her doctor scheduled a mammogram because of a family history of cancer. Younger women are getting breast cancer now, so please consider having a mammogram, even if you're under the age of 40.

Thank you for your support during this difficult time.

Three of Sara's aunts: Cathi, Laura, and Amey