Our mom is one of the strongest people we know. Recently, she was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, a form of breast cancer that has turned our world upside down as she is currently preparing for surgery and treatment. Because of her diagnosis she has been unable to work during this time, and the loss of income has made covering everyday expenses increasingly difficult. This fundraiser is to help with home, utilities, groceries, transportation to appointments, and other essential costs she’s had and will have, so she can focus on recovery without the added stress of financial strain.

If you know our mom, you know how much she’s already overcome. She is a survivor of domestic violence, and although she has beaten that battle, she now faces a new one within herself. Through it all, she has remained a loving and dedicated single mother to our brother, who is 23 years old and severely autistic and intellectually impaired. She also continues to support my sister and I—as one of us is currently in college and another is on the path to graduate school—even while fighting this battle. Even as she faces cancer, she provides for her children and gives them strength every day.

We have faith that she can beat this, and we hope our community does too. Any type of support—whether it’s a donation, sharing this fundraiser, or simply sending good thoughts—would mean the world to us. As her children we are asking for your help and to please spread the word. Your kindness and generosity will make a real difference in her fight. To know her is to love her.