Hola Everyone,

Lindsey and I, Ana, are reaching out in hopes of support as we go through the physical, mental, emotional, and ultimately financial hardship that has resulted from Lindsey’s extensive medical diagnosis.

For a little background as to who we are, Lindsey and I met in 2019 working at a local fine dining Mexican restaurant. I was managing, and she was the lead host. As the pandemic raged on, we were forced to furlough our employees a few times, Lindsey’s work ethic getting her invited back every time. Those few years solidified our budding friendship as we would watch out for each other in little ways we knew how. We bonded over the fact that we both have experience with UCI, her currently enrolled and it being my alma mater. She would check in with me if I was going through one romantic issue or other; I would make sure she would eat, was keeping up in school, etc. As is normal in the industry, I eventually moved on to pursue different endeavors in December 2020, keeping in contact sporadically as life went on.

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Summer of 2021, Lindsey went to the doctor after experiencing severe abdominal pain and rapid weight loss. Initially diagnosed with cirrhosis, she was told her liver was beyond repair. Confusion followed, as Lindsey’s persisting symptoms did not fall in line with the diagnosis. Having requested more testing, she was unfortunately told she had a malignant brain tumor and worsening cervical spine issues. Having attended CHOC Children’s Hospital for previous scoliosis issues as a child, the minor visits didn’t raise any red flags. As a result, she went a few years without any formal treatment. By the time we got to her true diagnosis, we were told it was in its terminal stage. Ana was one of the first people she told.

Being a fighter, initially, Lindsey underwent several surgeries, tried different treatments, and traveled to various hospitals. As time went on, Ana noticed Lindsey’s reaction to the medication was abnormal and having a hunch it had to do with Lindsey’s internal wiring, moved to also get Lindsey tested for her place on the Autism spectrum. Much to Lindsey’s surprise (not really to Ana’s,) the results came back that she has Asperger Syndrome. This incredibly helpful diagnosis changed the game as now her medical team were able to dose accurately, change medication that were meant for neurotypical patients and participate in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapies.) It became increasingly apparent that chemo wasn’t an option Lindsey wanted to go through, so she decided if this diagnosis was in fact terminal, she would rather fully live her life, with as little pain as possible.

Of course, over time, Lindsey’s cancer progression has taken a more intense toll on her body. Undergoing radiosurgery for her brain tumor in Nov 2021, left Lindsey in need of medical caretaking. Ana stepped in to help as much as she could, having two jobs it was easier for her at the time. Through completely unforeseen circumstances, in July 2022, Ana was approached by the hospital to take on the role as sole medical and legal guardian for Lindsey. Since accepting, she has completely advocated for her wishes from changing medication, finding treatment options, seeking alternative naturopathic resources, etc

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As you can probably imagine, this has been a roller coaster of a year and a half. Away from the physical aspect, the emotions that have come up knowing our time is potentially shorter has been terrifying and ultimately the hardest thing either of us have ever gone through. It has been our bond and our network of friends and chosen family that have gotten us this far. Now, however, it has become increasingly difficult to make it through the piling medical bills and combined overall living expenses. Paired with the decision that if Ana were to take on more jobs, which was her initial route, we would lose time that could be spent creating memorable life experiences. So, with that, we humbly ask for any support in helping this little family make the most out of life with as much peace as possible. Thank you!

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