NOTE: You do not need to tip GoFundMe. You can adjust that.

Kelly is my 34-year-old little sister, and she’s always been the heart of our family. She works as a bartender in Dayton, OH, and has faced more than her share of challenges. When she was 18, we learned she had the BRCA gene mutation, so she’s always been vigilant about her health. But as a single woman with a low income, there were times she couldn’t afford health insurance. Ten months ago, Kelly found a small lump in her breast. Without insurance, she put off seeing a doctor, hoping it would go away. When the lump grew worse, she finally saw a doctor a month ago—and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Now, she’s facing 4-6 months of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, ovary removal, radiation, and eventually breast reconstruction. Because chemotherapy will affect her ovary function, she’s also hoping to have egg retrieval soon, so she can preserve her chance to have children someday. Kelly is applying for foundation grants and other public services, but our family’s resources are limited. We’re reaching out to friends, extended family, and our community for help. Every bit of support will help Kelly focus on healing, not just surviving. The funds raised will go toward medical bills; fertility preservation; living expenses like rent, utilities, and food while she can’t work; hotel stays in Columbus for her treatment at the James Center; and even her dog’s vet bills—he needs oral surgery, too. My little sister is going through an emotionally and physically overwhelming period in her life and we are truly grateful for whatever financial support we can pull together to at least relieve some of that pressure. Thank you for reading and for any help you can give. Your kindness means more than words can say.