There are people in this world who give without hesitation. Who show up, lend a hand, and offer their hearts time and time again without ever asking for anything in return. Heather and Ryan are those rare souls. Whether it's supporting their family through life's challenges or quietly helping friends and loved ones in need, their generosity and influence has touched countless lives. For those that know Heather, it is especially evident that her greatest priority is being present for her four children - Avery, Emere, Levi, and Brynley.
Recently, Heather's life took an unexpected and overwhelming turn. After discovering a lump in her breast a few months ago, it was soon confirmed that Heather had inflammatory breast cancer - a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that accounts for less than 4% of all breast cancer cases. In addition to the cancer in her breast, it was found to have moved into her lymph nodes. Less than 2 weeks later, Heather received the difficult and heartbreaking news that the cancer had also spread to her L5 vertebrae in her spine, making her diagnosis stage 4.
This news has obviously come as a shock to Heather, Ryan, their children, Heather's parents, and all who know and love her. Over the past few weeks, Heather has been in Mexico receiving extensive treatment, and she will continue with chemotherapy when she returns home. Surgery and ongoing therapies are also part of the road ahead. Heather is facing this diagnosis with incredible strength and resolve, focusing on healing as she begins what will be a long and challenging journey.
Heather is surrounded by a loving and supportive community. People from all walks of life have stepped forward, asking how they can help support her during this difficult time. This GoFundMe is an opportunity to come together and support someone who has spent much of her life supporting others.
As Heather begins the long journey ahead, her focus needs to be on treatment, healing, and spending precious time with her family. However, the reality of mounting medical bills, everyday living expenses, and ongoing treatments adds an additional burden that no one should have to carry alone.
Those who know Heather understand her strength, resilience, and the way she continues to care for others, even now. Your support will go directly towards helping cover medical costs, treatments, and the day-to-day expenses that come with this diagnosis. Just as importantly, it will give her and her family some peace of mind during an incredibly uncertain time.
Every contribution, no matter the size, is a meaninful way to give back. If you're unable to give, sharing this fundraiser means more than you know. Every gesture of support helps lift some of the weight she is carrying.
Heather's spirit remains steadfast. Her resilience and perseverance has carried her through the last few months. She also holds strong to her faith in a loving and just God, trusting in Him to guide her as she makes decisions on her health and her future. Your prayers, above all else, for comfort and healing are most needed and deeply appreciated.
Lastly, as Heather focuses her energy on treatment and healing, we kindly ask that phone calls and messages to her be limited to encouragement, prayers, and uplifting words. While your care and concern mean so much, minimizing update requests or questions about her health will allow her to rest and focus on what matters most right now. For updates on Heather's journey, please reach out to Diane or Ryan, and continue to check this page, where updates will be shared as they become available. We appreciate your understanding and respect as her need for space to recover increases.
Heather is a fighter. Her unwavering strength and ability to face difficult things head-on are two of the many things people admire about her. Thank you for coming together to stand beside someone who has always stood beside others. Your love and support mean more than Heather, Ryan, Avery, Emere, Levi, Brynley, along with Kevin and Diane and their entire family can express.
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
-Isaiah 41:10