Grandma Mary (Toward Family)

In mid-July of 2017, Mary was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic Pancreatic cancer. This is a
devastating diagnosis, meaning that the cancer has spread to other organs. She has been fighting the
cancer with multiple types of chemo. The chemo has caused her many health issues, such as extreme
weight loss, fatigue, loss of strength, her hair has fallen out, and many other issues. One of the biggest
side affects is that she has only been able to attend one extracurricular activity for each of her
grandchildren. Before this you would have seen her at every game, dance recital, or other event in
which her grandchildren were participating. She’s lovingly known by many as “Grandma Mary”, because
of her devoted attendance to so many activities. She probably missed less events than most parents or
kids before she was diagnosed.

Any funds we are able to raise will help Mary enjoy her time left with the kids and hopefully help
get her out of the house to have some fun with her family. The funds will also be used to offset medical
bills. She has always been an independent woman, raising a child by herself her whole life. She has
worked hard to provide her family opportunities she never had. This illness is a cruel monster and
anything we can do to help her find some joy would be most appreciated.

The unfortunate reality of this disease is that it kills 70% of people within 1 year of diagnosis.
Optimistically, Mary has about 7 months left. The side affects of the chemo treatments have caused
Mary to no longer receive treatment for this fight. She would rather feel more normal than being sick or
weak. She wants to get back out there to see her grandchildren do the things they love. Her family is the
most important thing to her and any time she can actively spend with them is treasured.