Hello, My name is Louise, and family members and I are raising funds for my Niece, Lois, having surgery she needs on August 22, 2022, at RWJ in New Brunswick. Lois is always the first to go out of her way to help others, but now, Lois needs our help. Lois has struggled with her Diabetes for many years. However, in February this year, she had to go to the Emergency Room for severe pain that radiated to her back. She thought she was having a heart attack, but it turned out she had, among other things, Pancreatitis. In the weeks that followed, she had to undergo several medical tests including a Nuclear Non-Stress Test, an Ultrasound of her Pancreas, EKG, EEG, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy. Diagnosed with H Pylori - Gastritis - Stomach Lesions and a Polyp, she began a regimen of 325 pills (mostly antibiotics) to flush the infection from her system. All the while she was still dealing with Pancreatitis, and desperately trying to adjust insulin. From February until June, she missed 42 days of work due to doctor's appointments and procedures and the debilitating sickness that ensued. The medication she is required to take to help control her diabetes is causing harm to her pancreas. And just like years earlier when Lois had to have a Hysterectomy and then several eye procedures (both abnormal cell growths) she is again experiencing abnormal cell growth — this time in her stomach. Although frightened to do anything, doctors are advising that Lois undergo a Gastric Sleeve procedure. While many elect this surgery as a means of weight loss, Lois is trying to have this surgery as a means of saving her life. Already able to reduce some of her medications, Lois has been told she will be able to be free of insulin once this procedure is complete. And while her insurance will not pay for the procedure unless she waits for it to get even worse, she isn’t willing to take that chance. Her family has a history of cancer, losing her father and brother (both at age 51), and she is scared to be perfectly honest. Lois is busy getting all of her medical clearances, and undergoing nutrition and other required courses, in hopes that she can meet the financial obligation to go forward. She is hoping to be able to return to her job with a local school district in September, and they have graciously given her a contract, and a second chance at making a first impression! Thank you for visiting this page. Every donation, big or small, is truly appreciated and will make a difference. Even if you can’t donate, please keep Lois in your prayers.