My name is Jessica, and I've started this GoFundMe for my friend and coworker, Alysia Aldred. Alysia's journey took a turn in August while she was eagerly preparing her classroom for the new school year. She began experiencing persistent low-grade nausea, a lack of appetite, and back pain.

After struggling with these symptoms for a few weeks, Alysia finally managed to see her primary care doctor on August 29th. She was diagnosed with diverticulitis and given medication after some blood and urine tests. However, the following morning, her doctor reached out with troubling news—her blood work indicated elevated levels of creatinine, and she needed to seek urgent care right away. Alysia went to Vancouver Kaiser, where they evaluated her and decided to transfer her to Kaiser Hospital in Sunnyside for more tests. There, Alysia underwent both a CT scan and an ultrasound, revealing that her kidneys weren’t draining as they should, necessitating a routine stent insertion.

On August 31, Alysia returned to the hospital for what was expected to be a simple procedure. Unfortunately, the doctors faced challenges reaching her urethra to insert the tube due to an unexpected mass. At that moment, Alysia received the life-altering news that the mass was likely cancerous. They couldn’t confirm the diagnosis until her kidneys stabilized and she had further scans. Alysia underwent a second surgery on September 2nd to have nephrostomy tubes inserted into both kidneys through her back.

Following the surgery, Alysia went home and worked hard to adapt to life with the nephrostomy tubes. On September 9th, she had an MRI that confirmed the worst—Alysia has Stage 4A endocervical adenocarcinoma affecting her bladder, cervix, uterus, and pelvic diaphragm. A PET scan on September 16 will determine if the cancer has spread further, after which her doctors will create a treatment plan.

This has been an incredibly challenging and overwhelming time for Alysia, who is understandably anxious about the health battle ahead and the medical bills that will follow. The funds raised here will not only provide her with financial relief but also vital support as she navigates this difficult journey. Alysia is deeply passionate about her teaching and plans to work as much as her health allows. She is an inspiration to her students, a caring friend, and a supportive family member who never hesitates to help those in need. Any contribution you can make will be immensely appreciated during this tough time. Thank you for your support!