At the end of October 2025, Karen was suddenly diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive and fast-moving blood cancer that came completely out of the blue and shocked our whole family. There were no obvious warning signs or long illnesses leading up to this diagnosis. One routine check turned into urgent tests and a bone marrow biopsy, and then suddenly an AML diagnosis.

Karen has been fighting this cancer at MidState Medical Center in Meriden, Connecticut. In these past two months she has endured two hospitalizations, multiple blood transfusions, and many rounds of chemotherapy. Side effects have included nausea, exhaustion, and strict isolation to protect her weakened immune system.

The doctors remain hopeful, and we are beyond grateful that Karen has been accepted for advanced care at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, one of the world’s top cancer centers with one of the largest and most experienced bone marrow transplant programs. Shortly, Karen will relocate to New York for a bone marrow transplant to receive a treatment that offers her the best chance at a complete cure. This will require additional intensive chemotherapy, the transplant procedure itself, and many months of inpatient and outpatient monitoring and recovery in New York.

This next phase brings real hope, but it also means repeated travel and long-term housing away from home. The financial weight of the past two months has already been significant, and the months ahead at MSK will add even more cost.

Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket expenses are overwhelming. That’s why we’re reaching out to our community for help easing these burdens that will help allow Karen to focus entirely on her healing. Your donations will go directly towards out-of-pocket costs for chemotherapy, the bone marrow transplant, hospital stays, follow-up care at MSK, travel between Connecticut and New York City, and more.

No donation is too small. If you can’t donate right now, please consider sharing this GoFundMe so it can reach more people.

We have been deeply touched by the love, prayers, messages, and support poured out over these past few months. We are doing everything as a family to support Karen during these times. Thank you for showing us that Karen is not fighting alone. With MSK’s world-class care, we believe she will overcome this and come home stronger than ever.

We’ll post regular updates here regarding treatment milestones, hopeful moments, and Karen’s progress.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with Karen and our family.

With endless love and gratitude,

Karen’s Family