Raven's Fight for Health and Happiness

Hello friends, family, and kind strangers,

My name is Harper, and I am here to share the story of my best friend and roommate, Raven. Raven is a beacon of light and resilience in a world that often lacks kindness, curiosity, and genuine human connection.

Since we met at Starbucks in 2017, Raven has become my rock, my confidante, and the sister I never had. Now, she needs our help to overcome a medical crisis.

Raven's Lengthy Battle

At just 18 years old, Raven faced a harrowing diagnosis—a 12-pound metastatic ovarian teratoma. The tumor was bigger than a football and mimicked a third trimester pregnancy (see photo below). The removal of this cancerous tumor required the loss of one ovary, but the battle was far from over. The surgeon warned of high recurrence risks, yet Raven, with her unstoppable spirit, embraced life with joy and courage.

Adding to her challenges, Raven was diagnosed with gliomatosis peritonei (GP), an extremely rare condition where mature glial tissue implants in the peritoneum, omentum, and lymph nodes. With only about 100 reported cases in English literature, this condition complicates her treatment as many doctors are hesitant to treat her, leading to frequent misdiagnosis and mounting medical bills.

For years following the surgery, Raven lived a relatively pain-free life, but last year, the symptoms returned, leading to multiple emergency room visits, extensive testing, and a cocktail of heavy-duty medications.

Tragically, after one of the ER visits, her oncologist dropped her as a patient, declaring she was "cured of cancer" and that there was nothing more they could do for her. This lack of support has left Raven to navigate her complex and painful condition without the necessary medical guidance.

Recently, two ovarian cysts were discovered on her remaining ovary, one of significant size, adding to her agony. Both her current and previous OGBYN oncologists refuse to perform a much-needed hysterectomy, despite the risk of the cancer recurring. Their reasoning for refusal? "What if you change your mind and want to have kids in the future?"

I am hoping, with the funds raised through GoFundMe, that we can afford to find Raven a doctor who is more focused on cancer prevention than fertility preservation. Raven and Skyler decided many years ago to remain child-free. Hopefully we can find a specialist who respects their wishes.

The Urgent Need for Your Help

Raven’s medical expenses are mounting, creating an overwhelming financial strain. We aim to raise $10,000 to cover:

Despite her intense pain, Raven continues to work full-time as a chiropractic assistant, pouring her energy into supporting others while her own health deteriorates. Her strength and determination are boundless, yet she cannot face this battle alone.

How You Can Help

I am reaching out to help ease Raven’s burden. Your contributions, no matter the size, will make a profound impact. If a donation is not possible, sharing her story far and wide would be an invaluable gift.

Raven’s laughter is infectious, her spirit unbreakable, and her love for life immeasurable. She is surrounded by friends who adore her and a world that is brighter because of her presence. Let’s come together to support this incredible woman who has given so much to everyone who is privileged enough to meet her.

Thank you for your generosity and for supporting Raven during these dark hours. I will keep you updated on her journey to healing.

With love and gratitude,

Harper