Cancer, one of the scariest words for our family. This word was uttered again recently when my niece was given a diagnosis of endometrial cancer after a trip to the emergency room. This diagnosis, in itself, may be a journey our family could endure, if only we had not lost her father less than four months ago to Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. The two-year battle my brother fought has left a significant emotional, physical, and financial toll on his family.

Ashley moved back from California to New England in order to be closer to her family during her father's illness. This transition was expensive, and she just recently started a new job. Now, she is facing her own cancer battle. After an MRI procedure this week, her oncologist has scheduled an emergent surgery. This leaves Ashley little time to prepare financially for her leave of absence from work. Additionally, just starting this position and having taken time for her father's illness this year, Ashley has no earned time left for her own recovery.

I am asking for your generosity during this time of need to help reduce my niece Ashley's financial burden, allowing her to focus on her health. Your donation would assist with Ashley's medical bills that are becoming substantial, and to pay her rent in her new home. Please help alleviate this financial worry from my niece. She has gone through so much this year.

I am forever grateful to all my friends and family during this holiday season for your kindness, thoughts, and prayers.