I hate to be writing something like this yet again - asking for the help of friends, family, and even strangers - but here we are in need of some support.

A couple months ago, our mom was told she had polyps in her bladder that needed to be removed. It didn’t seem like a huge deal at the time. She’d been living with some discomfort, but nothing too alarming, so we thought this was simply a step in the right direction: remove the polyps, heal up, and get back to “normal.”

She scheduled the surgery, learned firsthand that catheters are no joke, and got through it like the tough woman she’s always been. The polyps were successfully removed, or so we thought. When she went back for a follow-up about two months later, not only had the polyps returned, but there were more than before. That’s when the doctor knew something wasn’t right and sent the tissue off for testing.

The results came back with the words no one ever wants to hear: bladder cancer.

It’s an aggressive form, but the doctors are hopeful. They’ve said that as long as the cancer hasn’t spread beyond the bladder, and they can remove it entirely, she will live, just much differently than before. On November 19th, she will undergo an 11-hour surgery to have her bladder completely removed and will live with a urostomy bag for the rest of her life.

Our mom has never been one to ask for help, even when she needs it, but this time feels different. She’s scared and so are her five kids and twin granddaughters. We’re trying to hold it together for her, but the truth is, the medical bills are already piling up. Her surgery alone will cost her out of pocket, $6,000, and she’ll be unable to work for about three months during recovery. She’s not poor, but she’s a proud, hardworking woman who lives within her means and doesn’t qualify for the kind of state assistance, which is mind blowing to us all.

So here I am, reaching out on her behalf. Every dollar donated will go directly toward her surgery, recovery, monthly bills and the many unexpected expenses that come with any life-altering diagnosis.

If you’re able to give, we are endlessly grateful. If you can’t, please consider sharing this page or sending her a message of encouragement - those mean just as much.

Our mom is funny, selfless, stubborn, and stronger than she’ll ever admit. We’re hopeful that with everyone’s support, love, and good vibes, she’ll get through this chapter and back to normal life as best she can.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for reading, sharing, donating, or simply holding her in your thoughts!

The Coutley Kids : Katie, Stefanie, Jennifer, Russell & Madison