Supporting Rhea - Stage 4 Breast Cancer

*June 2024 update:

Watch part 1 of Rhea’s story via the Canadian Cancer Society.

Over a year ago, Rhea received some news that no one in their early 30s expects to hear. After falling at work, and going to the ER thinking she had just fractured her ribs, she was soon diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer which has metastasized to her brain, lungs, bones and liver.

Rhea started her treatment with Gamma Knife Radiation to target the lesions in her brain and 5 rounds of targeted radiation to the hip and pelvis to help with pain management and healing of fractures.

She was notified her systematic treatment requires at least 26 weeks of chemotheraphy which she completed weekly at Mount Sinani in Toronto. She has had some complications along the way: several severe infections with her ports, a few hospitalizations, and news of more lesions. Below is an update of treatment and life since her diagnoses from Rhea.

June 2024 update from Rhea: 

 “It’s been well over a year since I’ve gotten diagnosed but the journey continues. Having metastatic breast cancer means I’ll always be fighting. I’ll always be fighting the cancer in my body as it returns/pops up in places new and familiar. 

 Here’s some highlights: 

 - Finished Chemo in September after another infection of my PICC line 

 - removed the PICC line as per oncologist requests 

-completed 10 rounds of whole brain radiation in August (which actually damaged my optic nerve and I have probably a 75% reduction in vision in my left eye). 

 -in May 2024, during a routine CT, a new lesion was found on my brain which prompted further imaging. An MRI revealed three small but new lesions were found that required radiotherapy. 

 -I was able to do Gamma Knife radiation but without the frame which made recovery so much easier. 

 - went home to Trinidad for the first time in January since 2022. Was able to see lots of friends and family! 

- in January I was contact by the Canadian cancer society to be a part of a story tellers series. As of now only one parts been posted but I think there will be 2 more ! Check it out on FaceBook, Instagram and TikTok! 

 - I do targeted treatment every 3 weeks. Still follow ups with scans every 3 months, I do echos every 2-3 months and follow ups from my cardiologist. So there’s still a fair bit of appointments but not as much as weekly chemo. 

- my hairs growing! It started off very straight but the curls have returned but It’s just a bit different than before so getting used to it 

 Any money donated will be used towards essentials like transportation, food, medication cost, rent and therapy. Thank you for your continued support!”

Anyone who knows Rhea knows her as quick-witted, caring, and the brightest ray of sunshine in the room. She brings laughter to each day and that has not changed through this experience.

We all know that cancer takes an emotional and physical toll. However, it also takes an enormous financial toll. The funds raised will help Rhea and her family cover bills, medications not covered by her insurance, transit to and from treatment, daily expenses, groceries, and rent. Anything you can donate is appreciated.

Rhea is still undergoing treatment and is relying on OW each month which is not enough to cover her monthly living expenses. Her mother Lystra has left her life and employment in Trinidad to support Rhea through her treatment full-time. She is truly an earth Angel and brings positivity and joy to this overwhelming time in Rhea’s life. We know it is a difficult time financially time for many, and we know not everyone has capacity to donate. We appreciate any support you can give.

Please keep Rhea in your thoughts. She is incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and support she has received over the last year.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and kindness.