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Last week, my best friend, Makenzi Scalise, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. The universe made a mistake—and since it has proven itself unreliable, I am calling on our village to rectify it. Join me in the fight for Makenzi, the patron saint of gentle parenting, insider coupon codes, fierce curls, and deadpan humor.

Makenzi was first diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in September 2024. She bravely underwent surgery and completed months of chemotherapy by May 2025. Just as her family was beginning to financially recover, her doctors discovered tumor cells in her blood last week. A PET scan confirmed that the cancer has returned, now as stage 4, with a small spot on her liver. She is scheduled for another surgery in the coming month, and after a short recovery, she will begin another 4-6 months of chemotherapy.

Her family is still financially recovering from the last round of treatment. Lifesaving scans like the one that revealed the return of her cancer aren’t always covered by insurance, and the costs add up quickly. Cancer is expensive in so many ways: there are medical bills, but also the cost of protein shakes to keep her strength up, takeout meals for nights when cooking is impossible, and small comforts like blankets and headphones to make long hours in the infusion center more bearable. Makenzi is a stay at home mom and the primary caregiver of her two boys, Noah (4) and Rowan (3). Her husband, Alex, is doing his best to support her, but the financial burden is intense. Her family depends on her, so she needs all the support she can get.

I’m asking for your help to support Makenzi and her family during this incredibly tough time. Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward easing the burden of medical bills, daily expenses, and the extra costs that come with fighting cancer. Your kindness and generosity will help give Makenzi and her family the strength and hope they need to get through the months ahead. Thank you for standing with them.