The Next Step
Donation protected
Abby Wheeler is one of the most kindhearted people you could ever hope to know. Her generosity of spirit extends to everyone she meets – inspiring a delight in the beauty of the world; as well as to causes she believes in – engaging with things that matter. She encourages everyone to be better simply by being herself.
This has been a rough year. In January, Abby courageously underwent what she thought would be a ‘take care of it once-and-for-all’ ileostomy surgery for the Chron’s disease she has dealt with for most of her life. Evidence of colorectal cancer was discovered, which meant there was much more needed to be done. Step by step, undergoing countless lab tests and scans, radiation therapy and multiple cycles of chemotherapy treatments, Abby has walked trustingly through this trying process with her characteristic grace – measures of acceptance and resistance, great strength and good humor.
Complications brought Abby into the hospital again in October. Her doctors have connected with a surgical team at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX and a potentially ‘curative’ surgery is being discussed involving (hopefully) thoroughly removing all tumor material and significantly reconstructing the affected areas.
Abby and her mom traveled to Houston at the end of October and consulted with the surgeon who is proceeding quickly with the plan. There are still several unknowns which can only be addressed during surgery. This incredibly extensive procedure is scheduled for the end of November with a week of scans and consultations beforehand, up to a two-week hospital stay and possible rehab to follow.
This campaign is an effort to help absorb the burden of staggering medical expenses and offer some peace of mind toward the needed course of action. In addition to what has already been paid out of pocket this year and what can be expected next, the uncertainty of what insurance will cover, missing more work and the cost of travel back and forth from Cincinnati to Houston and extended stay lodging is overwhelming. Abby should be able to continue this journey without the added stress of finances and with the uplifting support of her friends and family.
We greatly thank you for your care for Abby and supporting her in whatever way you are able. She wants to make sure that you try not to worry but instead send positive thoughts and confident prayers. We will do our best to post updates here as the story unfolds.
This has been a rough year. In January, Abby courageously underwent what she thought would be a ‘take care of it once-and-for-all’ ileostomy surgery for the Chron’s disease she has dealt with for most of her life. Evidence of colorectal cancer was discovered, which meant there was much more needed to be done. Step by step, undergoing countless lab tests and scans, radiation therapy and multiple cycles of chemotherapy treatments, Abby has walked trustingly through this trying process with her characteristic grace – measures of acceptance and resistance, great strength and good humor.
Complications brought Abby into the hospital again in October. Her doctors have connected with a surgical team at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX and a potentially ‘curative’ surgery is being discussed involving (hopefully) thoroughly removing all tumor material and significantly reconstructing the affected areas.
Abby and her mom traveled to Houston at the end of October and consulted with the surgeon who is proceeding quickly with the plan. There are still several unknowns which can only be addressed during surgery. This incredibly extensive procedure is scheduled for the end of November with a week of scans and consultations beforehand, up to a two-week hospital stay and possible rehab to follow.
This campaign is an effort to help absorb the burden of staggering medical expenses and offer some peace of mind toward the needed course of action. In addition to what has already been paid out of pocket this year and what can be expected next, the uncertainty of what insurance will cover, missing more work and the cost of travel back and forth from Cincinnati to Houston and extended stay lodging is overwhelming. Abby should be able to continue this journey without the added stress of finances and with the uplifting support of her friends and family.
We greatly thank you for your care for Abby and supporting her in whatever way you are able. She wants to make sure that you try not to worry but instead send positive thoughts and confident prayers. We will do our best to post updates here as the story unfolds.
Organizer and beneficiary
Jon Lewis
Organizer
Cincinnati, OH
Abby Wheeler
Beneficiary
