Support Lynda's Battle Against Breast Cancer

Friends and Family, I need your support

On April 26th, 2024- I had undergone a routine mammogram after reporting at my annual physical having had a couple short lived cases of mastitis over the past year, all of which I did not find concerning as the episodes were short lived and did not require any medical treatment.

But as I sat awaiting my screening, I took a selfie in what I believed to be a super cute mamo- johnnie and did not think much of the event. I did not have any symptoms to warrant worry and as a nurse I was sure I would have had a lump or bump a dimple or pain in order to be concerned.

The exam ended and as I walked out with a smile on my face, I thought that was nothing.

The next day was Saturday, a day I had anticipated over the last three years preparing for my future career as an Advanced Practice Provider - it was my scheduled day to complete my state exam. I had shut off my phone as it is required by the testing center when unknowing to myself, I would receive a call from the women imaging radiologist- requesting I return her call, of course it was a Saturday and no one was reachable once I actually received the message so, I had to wait until Monday. It was the longest two days ever.

April 29th- Monday morning - I finally spoke to the radiologist and was told I needed additional imaging as there was several areas of "calcification" within my breast.

Two weeks later I had the pleasure (said No one ever!) of having a breast biopsy and learned fairly quickly that I indeed had breast cancer.

Me? Not me. - is what I thought instantly and was informed that I should expect appointments with the surgical team and oncologist.

Time held still and although I remained positive, I found myself nervously awaiting the phone to ring. Now a lot of you know I am the WORSE at answering my phone and rarely get to anyone particular person quickly, but due to the circumstance I held onto my phone and picked up any call for the next couple days.

Two weeks later I met with the surgeon and oncologist. I learned that due to my own genetics and family history of reproductive cancers I would be best suited to undergo a bilateral mastectomy with future reconstruction, as I am not a candidate for endocrine therapy and by an 87+% lifetime chance would in my future be diagnosed again with breast cancer.

At this time, it is still unknown if I will require chemotherapy or radiation and will be later determined by the laboratory studies obtained from the samples of tissue gained during my surgery.

As a registered nurse for over a decade and having held patients' hands when told their treatment plans, as well as a nurse who administered chemotherapy agents, I found myself now in the "hot seat" and will undergo a bilateral mastectomy this coming Tuesday, June 18th.

Unfortunately, as a per diem nurse I am not eligible for FMLA and am waiting to learn if I quality for Massachusetts Paid Family Medical Leave. This ultimately results in financial burden as both me and Mathew will be required to take time off work as I recover. It is also still unknown if insurance will cover the costs of the procedure, as you typically get the bill after.

As the results of my schooling, I have now been per diem for several years and although I have faithfully worked in healthcare more than half my life - I do not qualify for FMLA and am awaiting my eligibility review for PMLA.

I am reaching out to my community, friends and family to help rally behind me during this incredibly difficult time to help me raise the funds to cover wages lost while not working, help pay any related medical expenses and provide some normalcy in my children's lives as I brave one of my biggest fears.

Your generosity and support mean the world to me and my family (Mathew, Elliott, Lyam and Elaina) and will make a tangible impact on my life. Every donation, no matter how small will make a difference in my recovery process as I have a long road ahead, with multiple surgeries and will allow me to heal properly with reduced financial related stress.

I thank you now, with my entire heart for standing by me during this challenging time.

With all my love and gratitude- Lynda