Fuel Debbie’s Fight — Again
Some people shape community consistently with great care, and without ever asking for recognition.
Debbie Connolly is one of those people.
Everyone who knows Debbie, whether through Lang Ranch Elementary’s childcare program or beyond, has felt her impact in a meaningful way.
She is the kind of person who shows up, no matter what. And now, it is our turn to show up for her.
Where Things Stand
In 2024, Debbie was diagnosed with Stage 3 Lung Cancer. She fought like hell, the community rallied (past GoFundMe), and she made it through. But it came back.
Now, Debbie is facing Stage 4 lung cancer.
The cancer has returned and spread to her back (dorsi muscles), her right lung, and nearby lymph nodes. At this stage, it is inoperable.
She is currently on a targeted chemotherapy pill, with a 40% chance of slowing or shrinking the tumors. The goal right now is maintenance—to hold the line, stabilize, and create time for healing, strength, and the possibility of new treatments.
In her first week of diagnosis and treatment, she had already lost 10 pounds. She’s experiencing swelling in her legs and ongoing side effects that are physically and emotionally taxing.
And still—she is showing up with the same quiet courage she has always given to others.
What She’s Up Against
Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It reshapes daily life.
Debbie is now navigating:
- Ongoing medical care and treatment
- Loss of income over the next 6–12 months
- Daily living expenses
- Nutritional needs to maintain strength during treatment
- Physical support items (compression wear, hydration, supplements)
This is not a short sprint. It’s a long, uncertain road.
Our Goal
We are raising $45,000 to support Debbie through the next 6 months of:
- Medical and treatment-related expenses
- Living costs during loss of wages
- Nutritional and physical care needs
Debbie and her family have thoughtfully reviewed this target funding amount to reflect what it will truly take to sustain her through this chapter. Your support, no matter how big or small, will make a big impact on her day-to-day life and overall fight against cancer.
How You Can Help
There are two meaningful ways to show up:
1. Give Financially
Any amount helps. Whether it’s $25 or $500, your support goes directly toward easing the weight Debbie and her family are carrying.
2. Support with Meals + Nutrition
We are also organizing community support for:
- Home-cooked meals (starting early April)
- Protein drinks (for nausea and weight loss)
- Electrolyte drinks (to support hydration during treatment)
Want to join our Meal Train?
Drop off meals every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at Debbie's home right in Westlake Village, CA.
go here for meal and drop-off instructions:
Your Support Matters
A Note from Her Family
Debbie’s daughter, Danielle, shared that while this is a difficult moment, they are holding on to hope. What gives them strength right now is knowing they are not alone.
Let’s Show Up
If Debbie has ever impacted your child, your family, or your community—this is a moment to give back.
If she hasn’t, but you believe in showing up for people in their hardest seasons—this is still your moment.
Give what you can. Share if you’re able. Reach out if you want to help in other ways.
Every act of support matters.
With gratitude,
Cassie Rosengren (steward of this message), The Connolly Family, and members of the Lang Ranch Elementary community
Organizer and beneficiary
Dani Connolly
Beneficiary