Shannon Petty's Cancer Journey

In June of 2022, Shannon went to her provider where a large cysts was found on her left ovary. At the time, there was not a large concern surrounding the cyst and surgery to remove was scheduled. After completing lab work prior to the scheduled surgery her labs showed that she had an elevated cancer marker (CA125). Due to this marker being elevated, Shannon's team referred her to an gynecological oncologist to be safe. After a consultation prior to surgery, they felt that the cysts was still not a concern and that there were other factors that rose the CA125 marker.

In August, Shannon went in for her scheduled surgery to remove the cysts, however, once the provider started the operation they found that the cysts appeared to be a rare form of cancer and Shannon's entire ovary had to be removed. It was sent to pathology and after a long eight days, Shannon was diagnosed with Endometrioid Ovarian Cancer the day before her 24th birthday.

Shannon's options were discussed at length with her and was informed that she would need more surgery and potentially chemotherapy. Both of these would have an effect on Shannon's ability to have children of her own later on. Shannon has been working with a fertility specialist and they were able to retrieve 21 eggs! Shannon had her most recent surgery yesterday (10/03/2023) to biopsy her right ovary, uterus and lymph nodes to determine the staging of the cancer and to have a more definite treatment plan. Samples were taken at this time, and biopsies were sent off in hopes to come back without any cancer. At this time, Shannon will have to have some rounds of chemo but finalized information has not been discussed until the biopsies return.

As one could imagine, this has been a huge stress mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually and financially on Shannon and those around her. First and foremost, we ask that you lift Shannon and her family up in prayer during this difficult time, especially at such a young age. We ask that you share her name on your prayer lists and through churches because we know that God is in control. We have, also, created this Go Fund Me in hopes to provide some financial assistance to help alleviate the financial burden and stress so that Shannon can focus on her treatment without the added financial stress. Currently, Shannon's total out of pocket expenses are unknown at this time.

Every prayer and little bit helps. We will post updates as we have them and thank everyone for their prayers and involvement.