Joanna Cardenas came into my life after we both endured difficult divorces, and she has been the kindest, most giving person I have ever met. As a devoted mother to her two wonderful kids, Samantha and Vlad, and a loving fur mom to four energetic cats and a diva dog named Tipsy, Joanna’s heart is always open to others. She never hesitates to support anyone in need, no matter how long or short she’s known them.

Recently, Joanna was diagnosed with breast cancer. After bravely facing chemotherapy and weighing her options, she is now preparing for surgery. Through it all, Joanna has shown incredible strength and resilience. While her workplace has been supportive, there are only so many sick days and so much paid time off, and insurance only goes so far. The costs of treatment, surgery, recovery, and ongoing care are a heavy burden—one I wish I could take away from her, but financially, I can’t do it alone.

Life hasn’t been easy for Joanna. She became a mom as a teenager and has always done the right thing, no matter how hard it was. She left a traumatic marriage with nothing but her clothes and a place setting, yet she never looked back or lost her spirit. Joanna loves animals, music, and sharing good food with good people. Now, she needs our help more than ever.

If at any time I have ever helped you in any way, please support Joanna in her fight against cancer. I forgo any good fortune or goodwill I have built up in my life in favor of supporting her. Any donation will help, and we would really appreciate it if you would share this to all your social media accounts as well as donating. Thank you for standing with us.