Anyone who knows me knows that I am not good at taking help—let alone asking for help. That said, back in September, I was diagnosed with grade 3 ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast. This is the second cancer I've had in the same breast; therefore, treatment options are very limited. I will be having a mastectomy on 11/19.

I work as a pediatric psychiatric nurse practitioner and also work many part-time jobs, including teaching and in the psychiatric emergency room. I will be out of work for up to 8 weeks, which means I also cannot work my additional jobs. This is resulting in over 20,000 dollars in lost income over this time period. Additionally, Devon has taken two weeks off in between his job to help care for me.

With the holidays coming up, our two kiddos, and especially with our bringing a foster kiddo into our family a few months ago, I am humbling myself and asking for help to ensure that my “stuff” doesn’t impact their lives. Thank you for considering, and love to you all.