Dear Friends, Family and community,

I am a mom to two incredible boys, a wife to my loving and endlessly supportive husband, Cory, and an educator in my 16th year. I never imagined I would be writing something like this. I’m good at humor. I’m fiercely independent. But asking for help? That has always been harder.

At 43, I decided it was time to finally check off all those “over 40” doctor’s appointments. In March of 2025, a mammogram bus was scheduled to come to the school where I work. I remember thinking, Well, this is convenient. I can get this one checked off my list.

What began as a routine mammogram, just doing what I was “supposed” to do, quickly became the appointment that changed, and ultimately saved, my life. By May 2025, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer that had already spread to my lymph nodes.

While we are incredibly thankful that this mammogram saved my life, the road has that followed has been anything but easy. Treatment has Chemo, surgery, radiation, ongoing medical care, and time away from work. Time I would much rather spend teaching or being fully present with my family. The medical bills have added up quickly, creating a financial burden we were not prepared for.

This GoFundMe was created to help ease that burden. Any contribution—no matter the size—will help cover medical expenses, offset lost income, and allow our family to focus on healing rather than finances. If you’re unable to give, sharing this page or sending love and encouragement means just as much.

Thank you for supporting us. Thank you for lifting us. Thank you for taking the time to read my story!

We fight together.

With so much gratitude and love,

Amber