Help Ginna Say: No Sarcoma!

Finding a tumor is scary. Finding out it needs to be taken out "now" is scary. That your doctors are concerned it's Sarcoma, which is rare (only about 1% of all cancers diagnosed each year), and that if it isn't handled correctly, the prognosis can be very poor. 

Being treated at a specialty center, like the Sarcoma Center at MD Anderson, changes outcomes dramatically, in a good way.  So, I flew to Texas for treatment at the MD Anderson Cancer Center.

I had surgery a few days ago to remove the tumor from my back. I don't yet know what it is or what it isn't. If it is sarcoma, my doctor explained that I'll need additional surgery and possibly radiation. While I wait, I'm currently trying to come up with a ridiculous "back story" for my 4-inch scar..... (please share entertaining ideas)

I have to be off work for just over another month, based on this initial surgery. My leave is unpaid, though I've applied for help from my home state (California). Flying to Texas and staying for two weeks has not been cheap. I'm incredibly fortunate to have health insurance, but as many know, the out-of-pocket costs (co-insurance and deductibles) in this case are not small. 

So, here I sit, in Houston. Not knowing what will come next. Asking for help. And I'd rank that up in the top 5 hardest things I've done.

I've had other serious health issues over the years. If you're reading this and you know me, you know that I've worked really hard for my health. To be able to hike, run, and work out; to get down on the grass and play with my nieces and nephews; to do all the things that make a life great. I don't take anything about my health for granted. 

Your help, whether in the form of a donation or sharing my story or sending good thoughts my way, means everything. Thank you. 

(P.S. If by some craziness, you all share more than I need, funds beyond my immediate need will be donated to the Sarcoma Alliance and/or MD Anderson Cancer Center)