Hello, my name is Summer, and I'm reaching out on behalf of my cousin, Lena Mayo, a devoted mother of three from Western North Carolina. Four months ago, Lena's world was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with clear cell carcinoma—a rare and aggressive form of cancer that strikes without warning and spreads quickly. At just 48, Lena has always been the pillar of strength for her family, but now she's facing a battle that no one should have to fight alone.

Lena has been enduring grueling rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, but heartbreakingly, these treatments aren't working as hoped. Her doctors are now recommending a drastic surgery to remove parts of her bowel and vagina, which would leave her with a colostomy bag for the rest of her life. This option feels like a last resort, and it's terrifying—not just for the physical toll, but for the profound impact it would have on her quality of life as a wife, mother and grandmother.

There's a glimmer of hope, though: Lena has the chance to consult with top specialists in New York City who specialize in innovative treatments for rare cancers like hers. These experts might offer alternative approaches that could avoid such invasive surgery and give her a fighting chance at recovery. However, getting there means covering travel costs, accommodations, consultation fees, and any follow-up care—expenses that are simply out of reach right now.

Due to her condition and the exhausting side effects of her treatments, Lena can no longer work. She's left with no energy to even get through the day, let alone manage the mounting medical bills and household expenses. As a family, we've watched her give everything she has to others, but now the tables have turned, and she needs our support more than ever.

Lena is genuinely one of the kindest people you'll ever meet—always putting others first, volunteering in her community, and hesitating to ask for help even in her darkest moments. She's the type who would drop everything to lend a hand to a friend or stranger, but pride and independence have made it hard for her to reach out. That's why I'm starting this GoFundMe: to rally around her and show her she's not alone.