Supporting the Drescher Family

My name is Wendy Drake, and I would like to personally thank each person who has found themselves here reading about Shelly’s story and who cares deeply for her and the family. I am Shelly’s younger sister, and I am leading this GoFundMe for the Drescher family, as I am able to keep very close tabs on their well-being and any ongoing needs.

In 2018, at age 36, Shelly was first diagnosed with breast cancer. Over the course of the next two years, Shelly went through extensive treatment, doing everything possible to treat the cancer including chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and long-term medication. Throughout Shelly’s first Wonder Woman battle, she fought courageously for her life and her future with her family despite the difficulty of all the treatments. This first cancer journey was difficult, but after finishing her last radiation treatment in July 2019, Shelly began a survivor’s work of moving forward – something that takes tremendous courage. She accepted a new position of Youth Choir Director at her church, and in June 2022, her family moved into a new home after 16 years.

In August 2022, Shelly received the devastating news that her cancer has recurred as metastatic breast cancer. The cancer has spread to her sternum, spine, liver, and some additional bones. Her treatment plan will not include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, but rather will be focused on targeted endocrine therapy and strengthening her bones, with a heavy emphasis on low side effects and excellent quality of life. The fight is for time, and the goal is to see the cancer retreat. We ask you to join us in praying that it retreats all the way into remission.

During Shelly’s first battle with cancer, her family opted not to do a GoFundMe. It can be difficult to reach out in this way, and they know they have more resources than some. However, what we found during that time was that people WANT to help, and often would ask how they could best do so. The purpose of this GoFundMe is to help those who want to help have an outlet to do so – one that can help provide the Drescher family with love, stress relief, and memories.

Shelly is fortunate to have health insurance, and the majority of her treatment will be covered by this insurance. The Dreschers feel fortunate that, God willing, the financial impact of this devastating news will not be nearly as high as could be the case. However, the mental and emotional cost of metastatic breast cancer is extremely high. The goal of this GoFundMe is to eliminate any financial burden that could be accrued, as to not add to the mental toll. Specifically, any donated money will be used for the following purposes:

• Two to three family vacations over the next year

• Covering deductible/out-of-pocket max for 2022

• Covering deductible/out-of-pocket max for 2023

The importance of creating family memories right now cannot be overstated and serves multiple purposes. Funding vacations on a timeline that is faster than what their family would normally be able to budget for is important, as Shelly currently feels physically strong and healthy to travel. Perhaps most important of all, planning future adventures provides the family with things to look forward to and will encourage play, fun, and joy. Each day is an emotional battle and knowing that positive things are on the horizon can sometimes be the hope that gets them through the darker days.

Shelly, Drew, Alex (almost 12), Isabelle (9), and Miranda (almost 6) deserve to experience life to the fullest in the midst of pain and heartbreak. Contributions of any amount are appreciated. Equally appreciated are prayers and loving, positive thoughts for the Drescher family.