Amanda's Road to Recovery

In May of 2021 just days before her 30th birthday, Amanda received the news that no one should have to hear: “You have cancer”.

A strange spot on her tongue was diagnosed as stage IV tongue cancer and would require surgery followed by additional treatments. Her surgery happened very shortly after diagnosis and was extensive. A large portion of her tongue was removed. Tissue from her arm and thigh and an artery from her arm were used to reconstruct her tongue and soft palate.

Amanda spent almost two weeks in the hospital for recovery with a tracheostomy and feeding tube, including three days in an intensive care unit. Her doctors have discovered that the tumor was quite aggressive and there is a chance that the tumor could come back. After she recovers from surgery, Amanda will start radiation and chemotherapy.

Amanda and her husband are exploring all of their options to help pay their medical bills. She has applied to several grants funded by cancer organizations, but unfortunately these organizations are already out of funds for this year.

Cancer is a terrible thing for any person to experience. It brings with it a high emotional and financial burden. No one can go through this experience alone!

Amanda is a kind, generous, and infectiously joyful friend who has been part of our community for many years.

Would you consider donating to help our dear friend alleviate some of the financial burden?

“Be strong, be fearless, be beautiful. And believe that anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you.” — Misty Copeland

Love you,

Sarah