Two days before the anniversary of her Brother’s death from cancer, my mother Arlene was handed her own cancer diagnosis. On June 30th she had a total hysterectomy and is still recovering. Biopsies have concluded that the cancer has metastasized to her lymph nodes and she will need chemotherapy.

Arlene is a native Mainer, who grew up on Southport Island. She is a wife, mother, grandmother and has worked as a CNA/Medication Technician for the last 20 years. She has spent decades caring for others, now she needs help.

Due to the physical demands of her job my Mother will be unable to work for an indefinite period of time. She does not have short or long term disability and her health insurance won’t cover all of her medical bills. Like anyone who is in this position, she is scared she will lose her home. Her husband's income isn’t enough to cover all of their basic living expenses and her medical bills.

With the support of her family and friends near and far, Arlene remains as strong as she has ever been. The road ahead is a battle but she is not one to give up nor go down without a fight. Any support would mean the world not only to my Mother but to our whole family.