Hi, my name is Tierra, and this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to write.

I’ve been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer, which has also spread to my lungs, liver, and bones. Some days I feel strong, and other days I’m just trying to get through the fear and exhaustion. But every single day, I keep going — because I’m a mother, and my children need me. At one point, I was actually able to ring the bell upon completing treatment, but not even a month later, the cancer was back and more aggressive. I was still in my 3rd trimester of pregnancy, so nothing could be done until her birth, which we opted to induce at 32 weeks so I could start radiation ASAP.

I have three kids, all under the age of 12. I have sole custody of my 9-month-old daughter, and in February, I am finally set to regain joint custody of my two sons. Bringing my boys home is something I’ve been holding onto through everything — through treatments, pain, and days when my body feels like it has nothing left.

To stay above water, I’ve been Instacarting with my baby, doing what I can to keep food on the table and bills paid. I’m trying my best, even on days when my body is weak and my energy is gone. But cancer doesn’t pause for motherhood, and it doesn’t pause for bills either, vice versa.

The financial strain has become overwhelming. Between medical treatments, medications, transportation to appointments, and basic living expenses — especially as I prepare to welcome my sons back home — I’m struggling to keep up.

Asking for help is not easy for me. I want to be the one providing for my children, not the one asking. But right now, I need support so I can focus on the most important thing: staying alive and being here for my kids.

Every donation helps give my children stability and gives me the ability to fight this disease without the constant fear of how I’ll survive financially. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing my story — that alone can make a difference.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for helping me continue this fight. Your kindness means more than I can ever express.

With love and gratitude,

Tierra