Kelsey's Journey

Hi, My name is Roni. I am Kelsey's mom.

I never in my wildest dreams expected to be writing or reaching out in this way, but here I am. My beautiful daughter, Kelsey Strain, needs your help.

Anyone who knows Kelsey knows her to be kind, thoughtful, compassionate,

funny and full of life. However, during the past 12 months, she has also exhibited great strength, courage and resilience.

In June of 2021, at the age of 31, Kelsey learned that she has the BRCA1 gene.

Women with this gene in their DNA have a 98% probability of developing breast cancer.

After much research and introspection, Kelsey made the difficult and

courageous decision to have a prophylactic double mastectomy to reduce her

chances of developing breast cancer; at that time, it had been determined she

was cancer-free, and she wanted to stay that way.

The surgery was done on April 27, 2022, and went very well; however, pathology of the tissue removed during the surgery revealed a malignant tumor which was

triple-negative, the most aggressive form. This discovery has created the need

for additional testing, procedures, and treatment, including chemotherapy.

Because of her young age and her dreams of one day experiencing the joy of

having her own biological children, Kelsey's medical team has recommended

that she freeze her eggs prior to starting Chemotherapy; the chemo could have

an adverse effect on her reproductive system.

I am asking for your help. Kelsey's out-of-pocket expenses will continue to

grow due to payment of insurance- required patient responsibility and

procedures that are not covered by insurance. Kelsey has not been able to

return to her place of employment since her medical procedures began. I hope

you will find it in your heart to give Kelsey a hand up to help her through this

difficult time. No amount of financial assistance is too small, and all assistance

will be appreciated more than words can express.

With love and gratitude,

Roni Goodhart Strain