In 2005 we met Lora McLaughlin and her 2 children Dale and Ava.   At the time she was a dedicated, single mom.  A cancer survior.  To give back, she was a team leader for Relay for Life, an event she was extremely passionate about.  Lora has an infectious personality and a zest for life.  We quickly became friends (after she put a dent in our car) and refer to each other as sisters from another mister, while Brian is her brother from another mother.  Lora is always quick to help a friend or family member in need.  Always 100 % present for her children. 

Fast forward to 2013, Lora was now happily married to Stan, her wonderful, supportive husband when cancer once again reappeared.  Over the last 2 years Lora has courageously battled stage 4 breast cancer, bone cancer and multiple issues with her kidneys.  Recently, Lora was diagnosed with a mass in her right eye sockett.  She is currently undergoing radiation and chemo therapy for this mass and is in danger of losing her vision in her right eye.   Lora is currently quite ill from the chemo and is experiencing swelling in her face from the radiation.

With the love and support of her family, Lora has remained postive and upbeat during this 2 year battle.  She is a fighter.  On days where she feels so unimagineably ill, she never complains.  You will never hear Lora say why me?  Lora  is quick to tell you she is fighting for her 2 children, 2 step sons, and for her husband.  Lora does not know what the future is holding for her but she refuses to stop fighting.

Lora loves Christmas!  When we lived in Maryland we we had the pleasure of spending holidays with Lora and her family.  Due to her cancer battle, Lora has been unable to work.  Money is tight for the McLaughlin family these days.  As Lora undergoes chemo and radiation, she now has the added worry of how to finance Christmas for her family and how to make ends meet for everyday life. 

As you can see, Lora's love for life shines through in her photos.  She is an amazing mom and step mom, a loving wife, and a true friend.  She is a fighter, and in my opinion a hero.  Lora and Stan have never asked for help.  She messaged me today because she wanted a picture of our family for her wall.  Those simple things make her happy.  My family wanted to start this campaign as a way to give back to Lora and her family.  To take away some stress from their lives in these difficult, scary, trying days.  If you can help please do so.  Every little bit will make a difference. 

When I count my blessings, I count Lora twice.  Thank you for any help you can give.  Please feel free to share with family and friends.  


Lora, Stan and their family

A sweet video made by Ava and Dale for their mom