My whole life changed on January 26th,  after a call from my doctor telling me I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Since then long days filled with doctor appointments, treatment plans, and hospital visits have been a constant. 

With one surgery down and adjuvant treatment on the horizon, I’m doing my best to stay strong and hopeful — but the emotional toll does creep in, no matter how positive I try to be. While I am lucky enough to have insurance, I worry about the unexpected expenses and hospital bills that have been flowing in since my diagnosis. 

Here are the things do I know: I start chemo in May, after chemo, I begin radiation. After radiation I am looking at 10 years of hormone treatment. I currently have two jobs to pay my existing bills however, I will be out of work for at least 4 months and have stopped my dog sitting side job in its entirety. 

To say this changed everything I planned for the future is an understatement!

Unfortunately, we live in a world where, for many, the word “cancer” equates to immediate financial burden.  It’s scary, stressful and no matter how prepared we think we are, we will never really know how devastating it is until it happens. 

Because of this reality, I have decided to humbly ask for donations to help ease some of the financial burden that comes with this diagnosis - all donations will go toward assisting with medical expenses, transportation to treatments, and any unexpected cost cancer throws in my direction. 

I know this is a tough time for many, so I have no expectations, but if you are able to donate or share my story with others, it would mean the world to me. 

To anyone who took the time to get this far, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, generosity, support and love.

- Nicole