When I think about my dear friend Sarah, I think about her vibrant personality, her thirst for adventure, contagious laugh (excuse me...snort), huge and unselfish heart, spiciness, straightforwardness, go-getter mentality, and courage.

Early on in her life, Sarah experienced difficult hardships including losing her much respected and admired father, Ken Lacko. During this time, Sarah stepped up to love and support not only her father, but the rest of us who were grieving his loss. Later in her life, Sarah worked her tail off as a single mother to provide the best life that she could for her beautiful daughter, Mia. Although many obstacles presented themselves, Sarah did not let anything get in the way of achieving the aforementioned. While one would hope that life would slow down and get easier for Sarah, it did not. She tragically lost her brother Keith, and then six months later was hit with even more gut-wrenching news: that Ken's (her brother) cancer returned.

When all of this happened, I remember listening through Sarah's tears to all that she did as Ken's caregiver: brought him to medical appointments, stayed with him when he was ill, advocated for him when he was without options, and provided comfort during an extremely difficult time. She was his pillar of strength.

Sarah has a heart of gold and would do anything for the people that she loves.

Now Sarah needs our help.

Sarah is scheduled to have major surgery on her thyroid next month with the goal of eradicating what is suspected to be cancer. This procedure requires intensive treatment and comes with a ton of medical bills. Although optimistic and good-spirited, this change in Sarah's life is taking a toll. Sarah will require time off of work to heal and will need various resources/layers of support to recover. She is currently working to secure these things, but will need our help too.

Any donation to this cause would be greatly appreciated. Your love and support means a lot and will help to carry Sarah through this difficult time.

Thank you.

With love,

Kristin Belter