Stand with Christine: A Mother's Journey

What do I desire for my birthday this year? This thought came up in a conversation with my dad tonight. He shared that he had been pondering it for weeks, searching for the perfect gift. "Dad," I replied, "I honestly don’t need anything."

Yet, beneath that straightforward statement lies something deeper. As I had a heartfelt dialogue with God this evening, I discovered what I'm truly yearning for in the year ahead: prayers—essentially, a miracle. My greatest wish is for someone very dear to me to find peace and healing.

Today marks the start of my cousin Christine’s battle against cancer. She has been diagnosed with stage 4 Inflammatory Breast Cancer—a rare and aggressive type of cancer that begins on and within the skin itself. It often goes unnoticed because its symptoms are subtle and differ from typical breast cancers.

Despite being under close observation by her doctor and a breast specialist after giving birth to her daughter, somehow the warning signs were missed; Christine repeatedly expressed her concerns while doctors reassured her she was healthy. Little did they know, despite those signals, her body was already fighting an unseen battle.

Inflammatory breast cancer can present itself in various ways—like persistent rashes or changes in skin texture on the breast—as well as nipple inversion. The initial treatment usually involves antibiotics; however, after just one or two rounds, further tests should have followed without delay. Christine endured five rounds of potent antibiotics while caring for her premature newborn Maeve who made a miraculous entrance into our lives six weeks early—just like her extraordinary mother!

Christine faced many hurdles before finally conceiving. Countless doctors’ visits and years of trying to conceive—Maeve arrived to remind us that every hardship Christine and her devoted husband Ian experienced was worthwhile. Maeve is truly perfect.

As I prepare to celebrate another trip around the sun, my only request is your prayers for my beautiful cousin who exemplifies strength and resilience. My aim this coming year is to support her in any way possible. This page has been created to help cover medical expenses, insurance costs, and any long-term hotel stays needed as she embarks on her journey at Dana-Farber Medical Center in Boston. Every contribution will be fully donated; 100% will go directly toward Christine's medical needs.

It’s important to emphasize there’s no obligation to donate; and no amount is too little, every little bit helps and the simple act of sending prayers is FREE! Family members from Long Island to Connecticut, North Carolina to Arizona—and even California—all want to rally together in support of Christine during this challenging time. We ALL want to help.

Many of you know how much family means to me; five years ago I watched helplessly as my brother lost his life tragically due to cancer. Witnessing someone you love suffer at such a young age is heart-wrenching. During those difficult moments leading up to his passing, Christine and her family stood by me—they were an incredible source of strength when I needed it most. Christine is the Ethel to everyone’s Lucy—with laughter ever-present and always ready with support whether silently standing beside you or having to wear an eye-catching hot pink bridesmaid dress in the dead of winter. Christine is your girl.

Luckily for me after graduating from AADA in NYC, Christine joined me at my dance studio where she welcomed everyone with bright smiles as they walked through the door ensuring each dancer left safely at night too! She helped organize regional competitions while also directing plays that showcased numerous talented young performers—it was evident she had an innate ability with children which made everything seem effortless; it’s truly a gift beyond measure!

I invite ALL of you along on this journey over the next year—not only supporting my cousin Christine but becoming cheerleaders alongside us all! She deserves positivity and abundant love as she navigates these turbulent waters ahead—and we MUST raise awareness among younger generations since Inflammatory Breast Cancer predominantly affects young adults like herself! So please take some time today or tonight just say a prayer seeking God’s mercy upon my beloved cousin so she may continue embracing motherhood and to be able to be present for her beautiful daughter Maeve.

If you can’t donate please share this link so we can spread awareness and share her story.

I wholeheartedly believe that Christine will defy expectations; she’ll rise above challenges inspiring others much like ‘Defying Gravity’ from Wicked the movie. I play this song endlessly on repeat in my car each day!

Join me on this heartfelt mission demonstrating immense love & unwavering support towards Christine Osborn—a wife & mother whose spirit shines brightly not just as family but also friend & relentless cheerleader striving relentlessly uplifting everybody around them!

Thank you deeply for standing by us during these trying times.

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