Stand with a Mom of 4 in Her Fight

Hello friends,

Many of you have heard the news by now and have reached out to me and even lifted me and my four kids into your prayers. First, I can’t thank you all enough, and I want you all to know that I am very grateful for your support. I am learning to take one day at a time, even though my kids' and my life has shifted. We don’t know what is in store, but we are trying to stay faithful and trust God’s plan. After all, God’s plans are bigger than anything I can ever imagine. I am not only a daughter of a survivor of breast cancer, but I am also a single mother to 4 amazing children, two boys and two girls, ages 10, 12, 14, and 18 years old. I have worked in the E-911 field for 19 years and have been a foster mother for many years. I have dedicated my entire life to helping others no matter what their situation is. That being said, for those that know me, know that I am very independent, and I hate to ask for help. This is why it is so hard for me to even write this; I honestly feel embarrassed to ask. However, due to upcoming medical expenses and 3 different surgeries, I will be out of work on unpaid FMLA for at least 12 weeks while I am recovering. I am already starting to feel the financial struggle/burdens, and I haven’t even made it to surgery yet. As the sole provider for my family, the burden of paying the medical bills plus household bills relies only on me. I wanted to share my brief story so far.

On August 04, 2020, at the age of 35, I agreed to genetic testing based solely on a family history of cancers. Those results showed that not only did I have a high family risk of cancers, but I was also a carrier of the gene mutation that increased my lifetime risk of many cancers. This is where my life began to shift; my gynecologist began sending out referrals to specialists and ordered several vital tests and exams that would help set my baseline. First, a mammogram and blood work were ordered. Then, there was the referral to Georgia Breast Care in Atlanta. Little did I know that this group of doctors, along with my gynecologist, would become a big part of my life over the next 5 years. For the next 5 years, I would undergo procedures and tests every 3-6 months and have several scares due to fibrocystic disease and dense breast tissues.

Fast forward to March 31, 2025, at the age of 40 years old, after undergoing several different procedures for the last month, my results were in. The doctors informed me that the masses and cells I have in my breast are a precursor for DCIS (which is Stage 0 breast cancer). These cells have an extremely high risk of turning into later stage cancer very quickly as they attack the ducts/lobes. So, I have a few weeks to prepare for a bilateral double mastectomy with full tissue removal, followed by ongoing treatment, reconstruction surgery, and extensive recovery and aftercare. Right now, I am fighting back so many emotions and worries. The funny thing is, for those who know me, I am very independent. Over the next few months, I will have to learn to release this and learn to lean on people and allow others to help; it’s funny how God works. God has placed the right people in my life at the right time.

This being said, any donation, no matter how small, will make a huge difference in our life. If you are unable to contribute financially, please consider sharing my story with others who may be able to help. Your kindness, prayers, and support mean everything to my family and me as I continue this journey towards healing.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and generosity.