Hi everyone,

My name is Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, and I am organizing this fundraiser for my best friend of over 10 years, Nicole Fenlon, because she would never ask for this herself.

Nicole is only 30 years old and has been diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, an aggressive form of the disease. She is preparing to undergo chemotherapy and radiation, but right now, she is facing a series of incredibly difficult decisions and delays, not because of medical hesitation, but because of financial barriers.

There are critical treatments and supportive therapies that are not covered by insurance, many of which require upfront payment with no payment plan options. These treatments are meant not only to help stop the cancer from progressing to stage 4, but also to support Nicole’s body, strength, and overall health while she undergoes treatment.

At the same time, Nicole and her husband, Dan, were married just this past August and had been dreaming of starting a family together. Because chemotherapy can significantly impact fertility, Nicole is trying to complete egg freezing prior to starting chemo to preserve her chance of having children in the future. Unfortunately, this process is also not covered by insurance and requires significant upfront costs.

Right now, chemotherapy has been put on hold while we wait for egg freezing to be financially possible, making this a time-sensitive situation. In addition, we are currently waiting on a full body scan to determine whether the cancer has spread, adding another layer of uncertainty and emotional weight to an already overwhelming time.

Nicole is also unable to work as she navigates this diagnosis and prepares for treatment. Before this, she had been pursuing a career as an ultrasound technician working with pregnant women, a path rooted in her deep desire to care for and support others. That dream, too, has had to be placed on pause so she can focus fully on her health and healing.

Nicole is the kind of person who has always tried to do everything on her own. She never asks for help and often feels guilty even needing it. I took this step on her behalf because I want her to know that she does not have to choose between her health, her future, and financial fear. She deserves to be able to pursue every avenue that could help her heal without the added burden of shame, stress, or long-term emotional trauma around finances.

All funds raised will go directly toward Nicole’s medical expenses, including uncovered treatments, supportive care, fertility preservation, and essential costs during this period when she cannot work. Our hope is to give her the freedom to focus fully on healing and recovery, rather than worrying about how to pay for the care she needs.

Nicole is one of the most kind, gentle, and selfless people I know. She has always shown up for others, and now it is our turn to show up for her.

No donation is too small, and every contribution makes a difference. If you’re unable to donate, we are deeply grateful for thoughts, prayers, positive messages, and sharing this page. Every bit of love and support means more than words can express.

We will share updates here as Nicole moves through this process. Thank you for helping surround her with care, hope, and the support she needs during this incredibly difficult time.