On December 9th, my mom, Robin Byrne, was admitted to the hospital for severe abdominal pain and discomfort. After eight hours in the ER and a series of tests and scans, she endured over ten days of agony before finally receiving a diagnosis on December 19th: terminal bile duct liver cancer. This news was especially devastating for our family, as it is the same rare cancer that took our father in 2023. The plan was to start chemotherapy as soon as possible on January 2nd, but the doctors explained that there was no crystal ball—our mom would likely have 7-12 months with treatment. We brought her home, managed her pain as best we could, and waited for her appointment, hoping for a chance at more time together.

On the day of her appointment, my mom gathered all her strength to make it to the doctor, determined to begin chemo. Unfortunately, the cancer had progressed so rapidly that she was deemed too weak for treatment, and we began hospice care that same day. This has been especially hard as I am currently six months pregnant with her first grandchild, and we had all hoped she would have more time to share in this new chapter of our lives. Our mom has always been the first to lend a helping hand to anyone and everyone she knows. Over the years, she has welcomed my friends as her own, offering big dinners, a place to stay, and unconditional support. She has been my rock and a guiding light for so many, always ready with advice, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. As a health aide, she devoted her life to caring for others, going above and beyond for her clients, who have all spoken so highly of her compassion and dedication.

Now, as we face this heartbreaking journey, we are asking for help to cover medical bills, daily expenses, and funeral costs. Our mom has given so much to others, and we hope that those who know her, or who are moved by her story, might consider supporting her and our family during this incredibly difficult time. Any help is deeply appreciated, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.