My name is Nicia De'Lovely, and I am an Oakland, CA native who has dedicated over 20 years to serving the Bay Area as a case manager, advocate, activist, and creative healer. In 2023, I was diagnosed with stage four metastasized colorectal cancer and given a two-month prognosis. Despite this, I am determined to keep fighting and to maintain my quality of life. Recently, I lost my employment, which has made it extremely difficult to cover my basic needs while I undergo a new, invasive chemotherapy treatment that will require at least three months of downtime.

Without a steady income, I am struggling to afford rent, food, and the medical copayments that come with my ongoing treatments. I am also seeking out therapies and supplements to help strengthen my immune system and manage the side effects of treatment. These include acupuncture to balance my nervous system, acupressure to restore normalcy to my hands, podiatrist appointments for severe neuropathy in my feet, reflexology for my ankles, new eyeglasses as my vision worsens, and a grocery list of vitamins and herbal supplements. My immediate family lives out of state and helps when they can, but I am mostly managing on my own after years of being the provider for others.

I am deeply grateful for any and all donations. This journey has increased my appreciation for life and shifted how I give back to my community. While I can no longer provide resources and financial assistance as I once did, I now focus on encouraging others facing cancer to maintain hope and focus on living. Your support will not only help me through this difficult time, but will also ripple out to others as I continue to share hope and encouragement along the way.