My name is Dotti and I would like to share with you the story of a wonderful human being who sincerely needs each of us now. Her name is Debora and without knowing it, she unwittingly made me realize the connection we all have with one another. When Debora came into my office one evening while I was working late, I could tell something was off. I gently asked, “How are you?” She replied, "I am so very tired. I need time to heal and to rest…" These words were softly spoken by my friend Debora, when she finally let her guard down after months of saying to anyone who asked, "Oh, I’m fine." Afterwards, she admitted she did not know why she opened up to me that evening, but I am so glad she did. At 67 years old, while facing a grueling battle with bone cancer, multiple myeloma, she has no choice but to push herself and continue working as a cleaning technician, no matter how tired she may be. She must try and keep up with her day-to-day living expenses, including food costs, utilities, and yes, her medical expenses. Watching her struggle brings back vivid memories of my own father’s fight with the same disease in the 70s—an era where support was harder to find. Today, I am refusing to let her struggle in that same silence.

For so many women, especially those who have spent their lives in service to others, there is an invisible pressure to keep moving, no matter the cost. Debora hasn't given herself "permission to stop" because in order to survive, she must continue to work to pay her bills. This fundraiser is about more than just medical bills; it is about creating a "permission slip" for a woman who has worked her entire life, while also caring for others, as many of us have done. She lost her sister to a stroke, her mother to lung cancer, and most recently her father to dementia. It was after her father passed away that she took the time to talk with a doctor about what she was feeling. This is when, after multiple tests, scans, blood work, etc., she was diagnosed with bone cancer. By raising these funds for Debora, we are telling her that her presence is more valuable than her productivity. We want to provide her with some financial security she needs to finally lay down her tools and focus entirely on her own recovery and rest. Together, we can help Debora give herself permission to do so.

How You Can Help

Every donation to this campaign goes directly toward Debora’s daily living expenses, her nutrition, and medical costs not covered by insurance. It allows her to replace "tiredness" with peace. No donation is too small. If you are not in a position to give financially, please consider sharing this page with your friends and family, and leave a message of encouragement. Sometimes, knowing that a community is standing behind you is the very thing that makes "just being" feel safe. Thank you for connecting with us and sharing Debora’s story with your friends and family. Thank you for helping us honor Debora. Thank you for your generosity and giving her the sacred gift of rest.