Sandy Yow's fight to beat CANCER!

On July 14, 2018 our mom, Sandy Yow, most known for her thick Boston accent and great bartending skills, was rushed to the hospital with a severe migraine, nausea/vomiting and blurry vision. A CT scan was performed, and the results showed swelling in the brain. Further testing revealed a brain tumor, which was causing the swelling and the symptoms previously mentioned. Mom was then admitted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center.  Vitals began to spike, which caused Mom to be moved to ICU.  After days of uncertainty, Mom had surgery to remove a large tumor on the back of her brain, specifically on the occipital lobe. Mom was released from the hospital just two days after the surgery with multiple prescriptions to help alleviate the pain she was having due to the aftermath of brain surgery.  The pathology report confirmed the mass on her brain was a metastatic tumor that started in the lung and spread to the brain. It was then we realized Mom not only had a brain tumor but a lung tumor as well. On July 31, 2018, Mom was diagnosed with Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). We are beginning to learn about this disease and its treatment plans, but currently there is no cure. 

A treatment plan is in the works, but her Oncologist and Neurologist confirmed they will focus on radiation to the brain and soon decide if a lobectomy (surgical removal of the lobe) or radiation to the lung is the best choice for Mom's condition. Chemotherapy will be necessary to kill the cancer cells that are identified in her PET scan. Since mom's discharge, we have had to take Mom to several follow-up appointments to meet with all her doctors and pay for her prescriptions. 

Her three kids, Shannell, Jackie & Garrett are reaching out to spread the word in hopes of receiving financial assistance from our family, friends and community to help alleviate Mom's financial struggle. Your donation will go directly to Mom's medical expenses, bills, food and treatments. 

Any amount or contribution will be greatly appreciated. We know that there is a long road ahead, but with everyone's support, it will be a little bit easier. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.

Shannell, Jackie & Garrett.