Stand with Amy: Overcome Cancer Together

Hi, I am Amy. Let me start by saying that I am blessed to have been here on this earth for 57 years. Being a two-time breast cancer survivor (now considered cured), I have come to cherish moments so much more than before. Life is fleeting, fragile, often heartbreaking, but always a gift, not measured in years.

I had not felt well for many months and was being monitored for declining kidney function, believed to be the result of Chronic Kidney Disease. In March, I became so sick that I went to the Emergency Department where a 5 cm tumor was found in my bladder that had caused acute kidney injury, as my kidney was not draining. After many tests, procedures, and surgeries, I was ultimately diagnosed with Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (seemingly a Stage 3, not related to my breast cancer diagnoses). I have not been able to work since.

This is a very aggressive cancer which tends to spread quickly and have a high recurrence and mortality rate, even with aggressive treatments. Typically, one would get chemotherapy, bladder removal, and a total hysterectomy followed by radiation. The chemotherapy is very toxic to the kidneys, as is radiation. Chemotherapy might be attempted, but I cannot have radiation, which further complicates an already poor prognosis.

It is clear that my best chance for survival is to implement integrative care (complementary and natural treatments in addition to standard care). The unfortunate aspect of this is that much is not covered by insurance and is quite costly.

This is my story, but let's not call it a sad story. There is much space between these lines for hope, healing, and victory, with a little help from friends. It is my greatest desire to overcome this with tenacity and grace--come back stronger and able to pay forward any kindnesses shown to me.

Please donate what you can, be it money, well-wishes, positivity, and/or prayer.

And... do not fear mortality. Walking with the knowledge that life is fragile and fleeting truly makes it all the more beautiful!

Blessings and Love,

Amy