Stand with Emily against Cancer

Hello! I'm starting this GoFundMe for my wife, Emily Mallia. Emily has stage 4 neuroendocrine cancer with metastatic spread to her liver, bones, spine, lymph nodes, and pelvis. Today, January 20th is her 8 year cancerversary and her future is uncertain.

My wife is an amazing woman; to know her is to love her. She was a teacher in Vermont and many of the parents of her students still keep in touch. She loves her students, and they are still her heart and soul. In Vermont, she graduated college, cultivated many friendships, and had an active life. She attempted to juggle monthly visits to Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston for treament and teaching but that was not sustainable. She left her life behind and moved home because she needed the support of her family. Cancer has taken her career and her ability to be a mom. She deserves so much more than this disease.

In her own words, once you're in her circle, she is there for you through thick and thin. Despite her cancer, she is dedicated to her family and friends. If you're sick, she'll likely show up at your door with a get well package. She's taken many of my closest friends and developed her own deep and unique bonds with them. Our circle of friends has become the family you choose, and we're very thankful for all of them. Her family and friends all want a lifetime of memories with her, but I don't think we'll get that chance.

After scans at the begining of January, we found out her tumors have grown with two new metastases. Neuroendocrine cancer is a rare cancer with several treatments, but not nearly as many options as other cancers. Her mother, Ellen, has been researching the internet for any and all treatments for Emily. There are a few left for us to try that may collectively buy us a year or two with the hope that there will be a cure. Those treatments and months of life come at a high cost of suffering and are expensive. We're staring down a painful cycle of treatments.

While I know Emily hates to accept help, I am asking for help for her. We want to ensure that any future treatments will not be impacted. While we live in between scans, I want to give Emily the best quality of life I can outside of pain, horrendous symptoms and numerous appointments. Funds will solely be used for cancer treatments and quality of life. All donations are greatly appreciated. If you can't donate, please share this fundraiser.

Sincerely,

J. Stead