Support Mandy's Battle Against Stage IV Cancer

Mandy and I have been friends since we were seven years old through school and violin. While growing up, I came to know her as one of my friends who always reached out, organized fun play dates, included others, was thoughtful, and loved to take care of others. She was my friend who never judged, laughed easily, and always checked in on me. She is the type of supportive friend who shows up at a concert or race to cheer you on.

We’ve shared many life experiences and are close in age, which is why I was shocked when she told me she has cancer. In August (2024), she was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. After additional tests, they found that the cancer has spread to her liver, making her stage IV. She will need aggressive chemo treatments and potentially both radiation and surgeries (depending on how her cancer responds to treatment).

After discussing her treatment plan, her medical care team at Huntsman Cancer Institute explained the likelihood of infertility due to chemo/radiation treatment. They suggested that if she wants the option of having children, she should consider briefly delaying treatment to freeze her eggs as soon as possible. Mandy has decided to freeze her eggs.

The deductible for her insurance for this year and next year will be $6000/year. And the gathering and preserving of her ovum will cost $7200 (after scholarship grants). Mandy needs help with these unexpected medical costs that will come quickly during the next few months.

Aside from this new diagnosis, Mandy is young and healthy. For the past few years, she's been self-employed, working as a freelance graphic designer and personal trainer/nutrition coach. Because she is self-employed, these funds will also help her on days when she needs to recover from treatment and cannot take paid medical leave.

Just like Mandy shows up for her friends and takes care of those around her, now it is our turn to show up for her, cheer her on, take care of her, and rally around her as she takes on the challenge of fighting cancer. Whatever you feel you can give, I challenge you to double it. Because, in reality, the life Mandy has ahead of her after this cancer journey is priceless. No one knows her situation better than she does, and I know she needs our help! Let’s show Mandy that she has an army behind her, rooting for her healing!

You may donate here or venmo her @Mandy-Booth