This is Aunt Jenne and Uncle Rob here to tell you about Sophia, our niece and god-daughter. Sweet Sophia came into our lives with a shifting of the earth. Quite literally. We had her from Haiti 12 days after The Big Shake, as she called it back then, in her reached for English language that she was picking up so quickly. She is so very dear and special to us and watching her grow from such devastation as an orphan and refugee into a young woman with such optimism and potential has been absolutely gawp-worthy!

 

Sophia celebrated her 19th birthday just about one month ago. Not more than two weeks later she was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. We are devastated. She has a large primary tumor in her right breast with extensive lymph node involvement. So far Sophia feels physically well. She is young and strong and determined. She knows there is a long road ahead and while she doesn’t know what that will look like she is going in with a wide-open acceptance that her life and focus are all changing overnight.

 

Sophia has accomplished so much for herself. She has her own apartment, a job that she thrives at and has recently completed her GED. She has made these great things happen for herself and we are eager that this illness doesn’t take away any of the joy of these accomplishments.

 

We, Rob & I, her parents, siblings and family are calling on you. We know our Village to be so loving and supportive and in this moment we need you. The reality of healthcare coverage in this country, particularly with disaster diagnosis is upon us. Even with medical benefits, the costs will be astronomical. I really don’t know how we got here.

 

We so humbly ask for your support. We would endeavor these funds to help us with these costs and to see that Sophia stays comfortable in her own home as is her wish. Lauri and Chris, her parents, are very determined that she continue to live the life that she has built for herself. She will continue to work as she is able. We will encourage her to indulge herself occasionally with something sweet; be that a pedicure or a new candle or a pretty top. At such a tender age we want her to know that her life doesn’t have to be all cancer, all fight, all illness.

 

We are so grateful for all of you and I am deeply overwhelmed in this ask. Thank you Village. Thank you.