Rally for Amy: Help Our Mom Fight Cancer Again

“Because in this family, no one fights alone!”

Hi everyone,

My brother Anthony and I are creating this page in hopes of reaching as many people as possible so that we can rally together and all show our love and support to our mom, Amy (Tithof). Anyone who knows her will know that she is the last person who would ask for help from anyone, but right now, she needs our support more than ever!

What started out as a trip to Med Express in September for what seemed to be just swollen glands and an anticipated cold coming on thanks to the wonderful Michigan weather, quickly turned into so much more. It wasn’t long before we got the news and our worst fear was brought to life: Our mom has cancer again.

The doctors have diagnosed her as having cancer in her neck, which has caused her to have enlarged lymph node masses on both sides. These masses have resulted in displacement of her carotid artery and internal jugular vein. As if that wasn’t already enough, to make matters worse, these masses are extremely fast-growing and have brought on multiple new issues as a result.

The last 3 ½ months have been filled with nothing but endless appointments, needle pokes, multiple ER visits, and more tests than we can really keep up with at this point. She’s had CT scans, a PET scan, needle biopsies of both sides of her neck, scopes, surgical biopsy of her tongue, weekly infusions, and endless blood tests just to name a few.

I’m sure it comes as no surprise to anyone that as a result of all of this, my mom has been unable to work for some time already and we are uncertain as to when she will be able to return. Right now, we are awaiting the start date for her to begin radiation and chemotherapy and are praying that happens very soon. Unfortunately, being someone who only has her single income to rely on and having that income drastically stop much sooner than she anticipated it to, while the bills (medical and non) are already starting to pour in, has only added to her stress and worries even more. I think anyone who has ever been in a situation like this can agree that right now her only worry and focus should be on fighting, not how she will have the money she needs to pay for her medications and everything else. I know times are so tough for many right now and many face battles we know nothing about, so if you aren’t able to help financially, we absolutely understand and welcome all the prayers we can get! There have been family members and friends who have reached out wanting to help but were unsure how to, which is what ultimately led us to starting this page.

Out of respect for our mom in what is already a very overwhelming and emotional time, we ask that you please refrain from calling her at this time. We promise to pass along all messages and well wishes sent and welcome you to reach out to Anthony or myself at absolutely any time should you have questions or want to talk more.

Thank you all in advance for your love and support! She has a wonderful team of doctors on her side and we will continue to keep you posted as she fights this battle and kicks cancer's ass, again!

Love,

Paige and Anth