Hello everyone,

I'm reaching out to you today on behalf of someone very dear to me, A friend, a Sister, Nikki Ampofo. I'm writing with a heavy heart to share her story and ask for your support during this incredibly challenging time.

Recently, Nikki received the devastating diagnosis of laryngeal cancer early October 2023. This news has shaken our family to the core and has left us all grappling with fear and uncertainty. As she embarks on this difficult journey, we're coming together to rally around her and provide the love and support she needs.

About Nicolette:

Nicolette is truly a beacon of light in the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Her vibrant and compassionate nature infuses every interaction with joy and warmth. As a devoted dog mom, sister, and friend, she brings boundless love and laughter wherever she goes. Nicolette has a remarkable ability to light up a room with her radiant personality and infectious smile. Her kindness and generosity know no bounds, and she has a special gift for making everyone around her feel valued and appreciated.

Despite the challenges she's currently facing, Nicolette's spirit remains unyielding. She approaches each day with unwavering strength and resilience, refusing to let adversity dim her zest for life. Her love for laughter and her unwavering enjoyment of life serve as a testament to her remarkable character and indomitable spirit. In the face of uncertainty, Nicolette's positivity shines brightly, inspiring all who know her to embrace each moment with gratitude and optimism.

The Challenge:

Dealing with laryngeal cancer presents Nicolette with immense challenges. This rare and aggressive form of cancer affects the voice box, making even the simplest of tasks, like speaking and swallowing, incredibly difficult. Due to her age and stage of her diagnosis, treatment options are very difficult for her healthcare professionals to decide what is best for her. As she undergoes her 2nd Surgery Early this month, we are waiting on the next treatment plan which can potentially include radiation. Nicolette is confronted with physical and emotional hurdles that are both exhausting and overwhelming. Not being able to talk for weeks on end and having to perform speech therapy in order to start using her voice again is a very difficult and expensive challenge.

Losing the ability to speak, or having one's voice compromised, presents a myriad of challenges that extend far beyond the physical aspect. Nicolette is losing the ability to communicate with others, and the lose of human interaction can lead to feelings of isolation. Not being able to express her emotions through speech adds another layer of difficulty, contributing to the loss of her identity. Overall, losing one's voice is a profound and life-altering experience that can have far-reaching implications on every aspect of a person's life. It requires resilience, support from loved ones, and access to resources and services to help Nicolette navigate the challenges and adapt to her new reality.

**Why Nicolette Needs Your Help:**

Unfortunately, the financial burden associated with fighting this battle is substantial. Due to Nicolette undergoing her first treatment surgery six months ago in November of 2023, and starting a new job prior to surgery, she was compelled to utilize all her sick days for 2024 for financial assistance through her workplace. Regrettably, her workplace does not provide short-term disability coverage, and she has exhausted all eligible Employment Insurance days, leaving her with no other option for income during her recovery from her 2nd surgery.

Employment Canada has suggested she apply to withdraw funds from her Canadian pension plan for financial assistance. However, this approval process can take up to 4 months before being approved. Additionally, with her fiancé currently unemployed and actively seeking employment, there is no incoming income during her recovery period following surgery which is 6 to 10 weeks.

Moreover, a part of her treatment involves completing speech therapy twice a week, which is not covered by OHIP. This adds to the financial strain. Additionally, there are numerous unforeseen costs, such as travel expenses for parking downtown near the hospital. On Monday, April 8th, the day of the 2nd surgery, Nicolette's car was almost towed, and her fiancé had to pay upfront $150 to release the car.

These financial challenges have placed significant stress on Nicolette and her family during an already difficult time. Any support or assistance you can offer would be immensely appreciated and would go a long way toward easing their burden. Thank you for considering their situation and extending your generosity during this trying period.

How You Can Help:

Your support, whether it's through donations, sharing Nicolette's story, or offering words of encouragement, means the world to us. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, brings her one step closer to beating this aggressive cancer and reclaiming her life.

Conclusion:

Facing a diagnosis of laryngeal cancer is undoubtedly one of the toughest challenges Nicolette has ever encountered. But with your support and love, she knows that she is not alone in this fight. Together, we can provide her with the strength and resources she needs to overcome this obstacle and emerge stronger on the other side.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking the time to read Nicolette’s story and for considering supporting her on this journey. Your kindness and generosity give us hope and strength when we need it most.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Nicolette & family