My name is Julie, and I am setting up this GoFundMe page for my dear friend Lori McLaren. Lori and I have been friends since college, where we met at Bemidji State University in September of 1990. Over the years, we’ve supported each other through life’s ups and downs, and now Lori is facing one of her toughest challenges yet. In July 2025, Lori discovered a lump in her breast and was diagnosed with invasive ductile carcinoma—a large, fast-growing tumor. She bravely underwent chemotherapy to shrink the tumor to around the size of a pea, and ultimately made the difficult decision to have a double mastectomy.

After her mastectomy, Lori experienced swelling and continued pain, which led to a second surgery. Thankfully, it was only a hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside of blood vessels that can cause pain and swelling. Now, Lori is preparing for a second surgery in April and hopes to return to work in May. She has been off work on partial wages since September 2025, and the financial strain from medical bills and living expenses has been overwhelming during her recovery.

I am raising funds to help Lori cover her medical bills and living expenses while she focuses on healing and preparing to return to work. Your support will make a real difference in Lori’s life, and both of us truly appreciate your kindness. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for considering a donation to help Lori through this difficult time.