My name is Elizabeth, but many know me as Natasha from my years as a dancer. I’ve always been independent and proud to support myself, but now I’m facing the toughest challenge of my life: a diagnosis of stage 3 colorectal cancer. After surgery and a month out of work, I’m preparing for six months of chemotherapy. The reality is, I can’t work right now, and the bills keep coming. My dad, brother, and friends have been helping as much as they can, but the financial strain is overwhelming.

I’m raising funds to cover medical bills, rent, groceries, taxes and personal care needs. Cancer treatment is physically and emotionally exhausting, and the financial pressure makes it even harder. I’m not one to ask for help easily, but I want to be honest about what I’m facing. If you know me as Natasha or have supported me in the past, your help would mean a lot right now. Every bit of support helps me focus on healing and getting back.

I know asking for help isn’t easy—if you’ve ever seen It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, you might remember Charlie’s speech for his mom: “Money me. Money now. Me a money needing a lot now.” While I wish I could handle this all on my own, right now I really do need a little help from my community.