In November 2024, I was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer of the appendix (Appendiceal Adenocarcinoma) and successfully underwent CRS + HIPEC in June, 2025 after a failed regimen of chemotherapy. After surgery, I underwent 12 rounds of FOLFIRI chemotherapy. Each round brought a tough mental and physical battle, but knowing that I have a beautiful family, including a 5 year-old daughter, a life-long partner of 20 years, and 3 of the most loved cats, who are counting on me to fight for our future really motivates me. They motivate me to push my mind and body and prove that everything is figure out-able and that our minds are our biggest threat when it comes to achieving things that may seem unachievable.

Recently, I received the difficult news that 2 months after ringing the bell, the cancer is showing signs of progression and I now need another major surgery. This time, I was referred to the Pioneer of HIPEC in the State of Michigan, Dr. Richard Berri. While I am grateful to have the best of the best in terms of oncology, the costs of battling this type of cancer can be extremely high, not only mentally and physical, but financially as well. Although I have never been comfortable asking for any kind of help, I must now swallow my pride and accept that bills and daily expenses may soon affect my ability to continue this battle.

Facing another surgery so soon has been overwhelming, especially since my resources are limited. I worry about how I will manage living expenses, travel for treatment, medical bills, groceries, and other necessities as a result of this procedure. I fear that this procedure may financially push me back to a point where I will soon have to choose between collections, or treatment. I want to focus on my recovery and not be forced to rush back to work before I am truly ready, but the financial strain will make that difficult.

Asking for help is not easy for me, especially when I know that there are less fortunate people out there, but I am reaching out to my community in hopes of finding some relief during this challenging time so I can live to tell my daughter how proud I am of her for building that puzzle, or drawing that picture, or graduating high school, or getting that dream job. Any support you can offer - through a donation or by sharing my story - will make a meaningful difference. Thank you for your kindness and for helping me focus on healing so I can return to work as soon and as safely as possible. Together, we can teach cancer a thing or two about resilience, team work, and the impact of a helping hand when it is needed most.

Thank you.

For those interested in following me on my Journey, please visit my blog at: https://sites.google.com/view/itwasntyouitwasme/home