Love for Kelly and Nancy
At the end of May, our friend Kelly's mother Nancy struggled through a medical emergency, which eventually led to a diagnosis of metastatic lung cancer. Nancy bravely endured a round of radiation for five brain lesions and also received chemotherapy. Unfortunately, she encountered some medical complications which has not allowed her to continue treatment. After several hospitalizations, Nancy has now been admitted to hospice care.
Kelly and Nancy have inspired so many with their love and support for each other. They are not only mother and daughter – but the dearest of friends who enjoy, cherish, and love one another deeply. Kelly has put her work life on hold to be by her mother’s side non-stop through the strains and pains of these past few months. She has tirelessly juggled being her mother’s primary caregiver with also trying to spend quality time with Nancy as her daughter. It has gotten to the point where Kelly cannot physically manage her mother’s care alone and needs extra help.
Aside from the emotional toll this diagnosis and the subsequent effects have taken on Kelly and her mother, like so many Americans who face a health crisis, it has also taken a toll financially. Nancy's health insurance and hospice care does not cover the additional expenses for around-the-clock care. This GoFundMe campaign is intended to reach out to our community for their financial support so that Nancy can obtain the proper care and loving support she needs during this challenging phase of her life.
Like Kelly, Nancy is one of the kindest people you could ever hope to meet. A long career as an Eastern Airlines flight attendant (or “stewardess” as they were once called), she was always at the beck and call of others. Her later jobs in the retail industry were perfect for her because she quite simply loves being of service and helping others. She retired just last year at the age of 81, yet still went out of her way to be there for friends, neighbors, and strangers - whether financially, by offering one of her quick-witted remarks, or giving a warm embrace.
Nancy has treasured her independence for so many years. Sadly, she has had to give that up while she navigates her illness. As you can imagine, it’s not easy for her to ask for help. Kelly is also one who struggles with asking for help – therefore, we are asking for them. Both have given so much to those who have crossed their paths and we hope that karma and the generosity of friends and loved ones will return the favor to help Nancy and Kelly ease the burden of caregiving duties – and allow them to spend their remaining time together simply as “mother and daughter.”
Thank you for considering making a donation to help Kelly and her mother Nancy during this difficult time in their lives. Please share this with your own network as well. It is amazing to see what can happen when we cast our nets wide and allow people the opportunity to come together as a community. THANK YOU for being a part of it.