In 1997, my mom fought breast cancer for the first time. She went through chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, and like the tough woman she is, she made it through.

Twenty years later, in 2017, she learned she carries the BRCA gene mutation, which greatly increases the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. Determined to stay ahead of it, she made incredibly difficult preventative decisions. She underwent a hysterectomy and a DIEP flap reconstruction procedure. A DIEP flap is a type of breast reconstruction surgery that uses skin, fat, and blood vessels from the lower abdomen to rebuild the breast after mastectomy, while preserving the abdominal muscles.

She did everything right. She did everything doctors recommended to reduce the chances of facing cancer again.

But on Christmas Eve, we received heartbreaking news: the cancer is back.

This time it has been found in both breasts, and one side is particularly aggressive. After meeting with her medical team, the best path forward to give her the strongest chance of never having to face this again is chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy comes with many difficult side effects, including hair loss. For many people, this isn’t just about appearance. Hair loss can be a daily, visible reminder of a battle no one wants to fight. There is also a possibility that the hair may not grow back after treatment.

A medical device called a cold cap can significantly reduce hair loss during chemotherapy by cooling the scalp and protecting hair follicles. Unfortunately, cold cap therapy is rarely covered by insurance and can be very expensive.

We are raising funds to help cover the cost of the cold cap treatment, gas and travel for appointments, medical bills, and to ease the burden of any lost income during treatment.

My mom has already fought this battle once. She has done everything possible to protect her health and be here for the people who love her. Now she has to fight again.

If you are able to donate, share, or simply keep her in your thoughts, it would mean more to our family than we can put into words.

Thank you for helping support her through this next fight.