Stand with Shelley: Two Cancers, One Strong Warrior

Meet Shelley, a beacon of resilience and determination. At just 52 years old, Shelley has faced not one but two formidable adversaries: brain cancer and endometrial cancer. Her journey began in June 2024 when she received the devastating news of her first diagnosis of endometrial cancer at stage 3. Despite the overwhelming news, Shelley was brave and underwent surgery to remove her uterus in August 2024. Shelley started her radiation treatment just a month after her surgery in September 2024. Shelley had to go back and forth from Welland, Ontario, to Hamilton, Ontario, to receive treatment at Juravinski Hospital. Shelley attended her radiation treatment five days a week for two months. Shelley and her husband went back and forth from Welland to Hamilton, paying for gas, parking, and medication due to her cancer. At the end of October, Shelley rang the bell, symbolizing the completion of her radiation—feeling ecstatic that her journey was almost complete. While it was a joyous occasion to ring the bell, Shelley cried because she felt hope, relief, and strength. However, Shelley did not know what news she would receive in the coming days.

Throughout October, Shelley was experiencing seizures that went untreated and undiagnosed for a month. Shelley was going to the hospital constantly, trying to figure out what was wrong with her. Finally, Shelley met a doctor in the emergency room who listened to her cry for help. The doctor ordered a head CT scan to resolve and find out what is happening to her. Unfortunately, Shelley received disheartening news; just two days after completion of radiation, the doctor told Shelley that there was a tumour in her brain. Shelley was devastated and felt defeated.

Currently, Shelley has no use of her right arm and no use of her right leg. Shelley is devastated and feels defeated. Five days later, after receiving the news, Shelley underwent brain surgery to remove the tumour. Shelley is heartbroken as she just finished her radiation treatment for endometrial cancer; now she must redo radiation treatment for brain cancer.

Shelley is unable to walk and is trying to learn how to walk again after her brain surgery. She is trying to build up her strength to get back to the life she used to have with her family and friends. She is strong, brave, encouraging, and, most importantly, a warrior. Her strength inspires her family and friends. She is always positive in these difficult times, and nothing is going to keep her down—not even cancer.

 

Shelley is unable to work due to her cancer. She tried to work for as long as she could; however, Shelley is unable to work because she must relearn mobility and build her strength again. Shelley's place of employment does not provide private insurance. Shelley should be focusing on her treatment during this time and not worrying about her finances. Shelley’s medical expenses have been staggering, and she needs our help. By contributing to this fundraiser, you’re not just helping her with her bills—you’re helping a mother, a wife, a friend, and a warrior. Let’s come together and show Shelley that she doesn’t have to face this fight alone. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in Shelley’s life and her battle against cancer. Thank you for your generosity and support.