Stand with Marcie Against Cancer

Dear Friends and Family, We are reaching out to ask for your support of the Bourque family.‭ Marcie Bourque‬ is married to Leo, who is a Veteran of the United States Navy. Marcie & Leo have been married for the past 18 years and have one precious daughter, Maya, who is 9 years old. In October 2024, Marcie was diagnosed with Stage 4 appendiceal cancer. Unfortunately, it is high grade and the most aggressive form of appendix cancer. Marcie had Cytoreduction surgery where they removed several organs, followed by HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal chemotherapy) in November 2024. She then began six months of aggressive chemotherapy treatment in late January 2025, which was expected to end in late July 2025. We were just presented with information this week though that nodules were found in Marcie's lungs. Currently, the lung nodules are too small for a biopsy, but Marcie's medical oncologist is worried, as well as her and the entire family. As a result, Marcie has faced many setbacks with her treatment. She and her family need both financial and emotional support, as well as, continual support in prayer. Marcie is a wonderful person and is always thinking of others before herself, even in her current situation. We pray that her faith is strengthened through this immense struggle and that she leans on it heavily. With GOD all things are possible! Marcie has been employed with the Department of Defense as a Federal employee for over 23 years.‭ ‬Leo is a part-time Pastor and part-time Chaplain, and his income is limited with no benefits. Marcie has been on leave without pay (LWOP), has had all of her sick leave exhausted, and her annual leave is about to run out over the next week. She will then be placed back on LWOP. Marcie recently requested leave donations through her employer (Federal Government) to help provide financial support while going through chemotherapy and any additional treatment that may be required. The main goal of the leave donations is to maintain Marcie’s insurance, to make up her lost income, and to help in the continued fight of her illness. Due to the rarity of this disease, Marcie will need to travel for treatment purposes. There are only select facilities throughout the country that specialize in her type of cancer. It is a very rare cancer, one in which just 1-2 people per million are diagnosed with annually in the United States. This has been a very difficult time for Marcie and her entire family, especially their daughter Maya. She cannot fully understand, at her age, what is happening with her mother. We appreciate your help with any donations, or simply thoughts & prayers for healing/comfort, during this trying time. We believe in the power of GOD and pray that he heals Marcie in body and spirit. We pray that their family is held close, and GOD gives them the strength and courage to weather this storm. Your contribution can help cover necessary expenses and make a tangible difference in ensuring Marcie receives the best care possible. Your help, in turn, will allow Marcie to focus solely on her treatment and extensive recovery. She and her family are thankful for any amount you can give and are so grateful for your consideration of this request. Together we can help the Bourque family during this very difficult time. Thank you, and may God bless you and your family!!! Lovingly and respectfully submitted, Leanna (Bourque) Owen Marcie’s Sister-in-Law