My name is Laury Nelson, and I’m raising funds for my sister-in-law, Kristy Nelson, who was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (breast cancer) on September 3, 2024. Her diagnosis came as a complete shock - she had no family history of breast cancer, and the tumor was only detected thanks to her annual 3D mammogram. It was still undetectable during self-exams.

Kristy underwent a lumpectomy on October 18, 2024, during which doctors removed the tumor and eleven lymph nodes. This was followed by 16 radiation treatments in Madison, Wisconsin, requiring her to drive 4 hours round-trip every weekday throughout November and December - all while keeping life as normal as possible for her family during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

She rang the bell to mark the end of her radiation on January 2, 2025 - a hard-earned milestone. Thankfully, Kristy did not require chemotherapy, as her tumor type would not have responded to it.

While healing, Kristy experienced severe fluid retention in her breast and underarm. She underwent multiple drainings and eventually had a temporary drain placed. The discomfort and swelling under her right arm continue today, and she often has to raise her arm above her head just to relieve the pain. Her doctors continue to monitor this closely.

Kristy’s second phase of treatment involved eliminating estrogen and progesterone from her body. She began Lupron injections on January 15, 2025, followed by Anastrozole, which she’ll need to take for ten years. To avoid lifelong injections, Kristy had her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed on August 8, 2025.

Her prognosis is positive, and her body and spirit are healing - but recovery is slow, and exhaustion remains a daily challenge. She continues to serve as primary caregiver for her mother, even as she battles her own fatigue and stress.

Despite having health insurance, Kristy’s family faces two years of high deductibles - totaling over $36,000 - along with ongoing expenses for travel, lodging, meals, and frequent medical appointments. She continues to see her care team every three months and will need alternating MRI and 3D mammograms every six months for life.

Kristy has done everything she can to pay her medical bills on time, but the weight of ongoing expenses - from medical care to basic living needs - is overwhelming. The financial stress, combined with physical exhaustion and fear of recurrence, is affecting her sleep, peace of mind, and ability to move forward.

Funds raised will go directly to:

Kristy is incredibly grateful, humble, and hopeful, but this journey has taken a heavy toll. Your support - whether through a donation, a prayer, or by sharing this campaign - would mean the world to Kristy and our family.

Thank you for taking the time to read her story and for any support you can offer.

With gratitude,

Laury, Kristy, and our family