Hi, my name is Alyssa, and I am writing this with a heavy and hopeful heart.

Our family has already walked this road once, and we never imagined we would be here again so soon.

A couple of years ago, my sisters and I lost our mom to ovarian cancer. Watching her fight was devastating. She went through chemotherapy day after day, and over time we watched the strongest woman we knew face the horrible side effects of chemotherapy and cancer. We know she fought with everything she had, but witnessing the kind of suffering she endured through treatment leaves a permanent imprint on you.

Now our oldest sister Michelle is facing the same diagnosis. The experience with our mom deeply shaped how we are approaching Michelle’s care today.

Michelle is gentle, creative, and deeply caring. She is someone who gives to others even when she is struggling herself. Asking for help does not come naturally to her, which makes this moment incredibly humbling.

Because of what we lived through with our mom, we felt strongly about exploring a different path for Michelle. She is traveling to Mexico to pursue integrative cancer care that focuses on supporting the body as a whole, strengthening her system, and prioritizing quality of life alongside treatment. This approach feels aligned with Michelle’s values and with what our family believes is best for her right now.

Unfortunately, these treatments are not covered by insurance at all.

The costs of care, travel, and extended treatment have quickly become overwhelming. Our sister Jazmin and I are doing everything we can to support Michelle emotionally, physically, and financially, but we cannot carry this alone.

We are still grieving our mom, and now we are doing everything in our power to protect our sister.

This fundraiser is about giving Michelle the opportunity to focus on healing without the constant weight of financial stress. It is about surrounding her with love, stability, and support during the most vulnerable season of her life.

If you are able to donate, please know that every contribution, no matter the amount, makes a real and meaningful difference. If you are not in a position to donate, sharing this page or keeping Michelle in your thoughts and prayers means just as much.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. Thank you for helping carry this weight with us. And thank you for standing with our family during a moment that has changed everything.

With so much gratitude,

Alyssa