Our mom, Cristie, was recently faced with news that no one ever expects to hear—and certainly never wants to: a cancer diagnosis.

This is something we never expected to write, and words don't come easy. She is a devoted single mom, a fierce friend, and deeply loyal to her tribe through and through. She has spent her life working hard to provide for us and make sure we have everything we need and more. Our mom shows up, supports those around her tirelessly, and does everything she can for everyone around her–especially us.

As she begins this journey, our focus is supporting her through treatment so she can focus on healing. With treatments five days a week, appointments, and the recovery ahead, she will need to miss a significant amount of work. As a single mother who has always carried the responsibility of providing for her kids, the financial stress that comes with this diagnosis adds another layer of difficulty during an already overwhelming time.

We are starting this GoFundMe to help ease that burden so she can focus on what matters most—fighting this and getting healthy again. The funds raised will go toward medical treatments, appointments, and everyday living expenses while she is unable to work.

Anyone who knows our mom knows how strong, caring, and selfless she is. She has always been the one taking care of everyone else. Now we are asking for help to take care of her.

If you are able to donate, share, or keep our family in your thoughts and prayers, it means more than we could ever express. Our mom, Cristie, is a fighter, and we want to do everything we can to help her get through this.