Glenda Mercado is the strong, loving, and supportive mother of four children. For years, she has bravely fought colon cancer, and her family and friends have stood by her side through every challenge. Recently, Glenda received the heartbreaking news that her cancer has spread too far, and there are no further treatment options. She has now been moved into hospice care, and her family is devastated as they face the uncertainty of how much time they have left with her.

Lauren, Glenda’s daughter, is my best friend. She is bright, intelligent, and has the biggest heart of anyone I know. Lauren is a gifted art teacher, currently enrolled in grad school, and loves to travel the world. Watching her and her family go through this slow and painful process is truly heartbreaking. No one should have to experience the horrors of cancer, let alone worry about the overwhelming expenses that come with it.

Myself and our other best friend have started this GoFundMe to help cover the costs of Glenda’s chemotherapy, hospice care, and eventual end-of-life expenses. This family has been through so much, and any support—whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this page—will make a tremendous difference. We appreciate anything and everything, and hope that one day we can return the favor to others in need.