Hello friends. My name is Kim and I have been a co-worker and friend of Rita’s for a number of years. Rita is one of those people that just makes life a little brighter by spreading joy amongst those around her for no other reason than she likes to make people smile. Rita has the kindest of souls and deserves all the good health and happiness that this world has to offer.

Rita is currently battling a reoccurrence of a cancer she beat 7 years ago. This is a very serious situation as it has grown rapidly, spread to the point of blocking the flow of vital organs, and is wrapping itself around tubes and organs in her body, affecting her well-being and daily comfort.

Rita’s first doctor did some tests, diagnosed her, and was in no hurry to assist or begin treatment and felt as if she was telling her there was nothing she could do. Taking that call with her was heart-breaking. But, being the fighter that she is, she contacted her original oncologist who had her in the next day, the day before Christmas, and within 1 week, Rita has biopsies, a treatment plan, and hope.

Currently, Rita is undergoing 3 different types of chemo that lasts 10 hours a day, every 3 weeks. The chemo is beyond dangerous and extremely toxic. Last week, Rita lost her hair - but not her sense of humor and not her resilience. If you can imagine, she is still working her full-time job while undergoing treatment as she has fear of losing income or her employment.

Rita recently had a very scary situation as a result of the treatments that left her hospitalized in very serious condition for over a week. Rita and her family will need help with the medical bills being incurred during this fight for her life. While I know times are tough for anyone, imagine trying to work and battle this disease, and to have to worry about paying medical debt that you need to live.

I am asking for any help that you give, no amount is too small, to help grant Rita and her family a little security and breathing room to help reduce her stress so she can concentrate fully on her healing and recovery.

Thank you for reading Rita’s story and for any help or prayers you have to give.