My name is Christie and if you know me, you know my mom, Marcia, means everything to me. She raised me as a single mother and made sure I never wanted for anything. Now it's my turn to do all that I can to help her, which is why I'd like to share her story.
This time last year, in November 2024, we got the news no one wants to hear - mom had cancer and it was moving fast. She needed to have surgery to remove it as soon as possible.
The last time Mom was able to eat solid food by mouth was December 11, 2024, when we went to dinner the evening before her first surgery. She has been depending on a feeding tube for her nutrition since then.
The nearly 12 hour surgery in early December was successful, removing the highly aggressive stage 4 cancer in her oral cavity, which by then had spread to her jaw bone and one lymph node in her neck.
However, several complications in the healing and recovery process subsequently arose, resulting in the need for months of daily hyperbaric oxygen treatments, yet another surgery and another long hospital stay...
Part of her early healing journey with hyperbarics was even highlighted by the hospital system where she receives her care:
She next endured 6 weeks of radiation in the spring of 2025 which brought it's own challenges and side effects.
Since that first procedure back in December, Marcia - my sweet momma bear , has been through a total of 5 surgeries with the goal of reconstructing her jaw and neck. She has spent 41 days in the hospital across 5 admissions, turning what we expected to be a roughly 2-month process into a year-long traumatic ordeal.
Unfortunately, it seems the fight is not yet over. She will require further surgery and continued care.
Though the journey has been incredibly arduous and fraught with obstacles, Mom has faced every challenge with endless grace, a positive attitude, and a warrior's spirit!
I have been fortunate enough to be by Mom's side through every hospital admission and care for her at home, suddenly transitioning from my full time job as a nurse to full time caregiver and advocate.
With plans for future surgeries and interventions yet unknown, it is uncertain when either of us will be able to return to work.
I am asking those who are able to consider making donations toward her medical care and living expenses as she continues along this journey to recovery. Funds will go directly toward medical bills, medical supplies, and living expenses for Marcia.
We are immensely grateful for any amount you may be able to give, but even more grateful for your time, attention and positive thoughts for Mom's recovery.
Please share Marcia's story with your family, friends, neighbors, and social media - so that the village rooting for her may grow!
Help me support Momma Bear in her continued fight!
Organizer
