Hey there, my name is Whitney Ansons and Zenda Zak is my precious momma. On May 3rd our world had been shaken by the terrible words; "you have pancreatic cancer, stage 4." Mom beat Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma twenty-one years ago. However, we knew when the doctor said pancreatic cancer that was not good. Then when he told us the stage, I believe my stomach was in my throat and all I can remember is hearing my momma burst into tears. She knew that her life was not going to be the same after those words were murmured. We have been told that this stage and type of cancer is not curable but for the rest of her life, she will need treatment to survive. None of us know the day or the hour that the good Lord will take us home. However, we do know that when your body is having to fight against itself your time can be shortened. It pains me to the pit of my stomach to say this but without chemotherapy treatments, Mom's time with us is significantly shortened. The doctors have told us 6 months or less without treatment. I am not ready for her to leave this earth, but I know that this place is not her home, she is at peace with it all, but she is willing to continue to fight for every minute she may have. She tells everyone she will be with Jesus and that is her comfort. I can rest a little easier knowing she is okay with it all and ready to meet her Jesus.

Mom has been placed on approved leave from her library job now. During this time of leave, she is not being paid. She only brings in a small amount, to begin with, so the cost of these treatments is affecting her finances significantly. Insurance covers 80% but mom must pay the other 20% which is $400 out of pocket for each treatment, $800 a month. The treatments are so extensive that she goes into the clinic for 5 hours every two weeks for treatment and then takes a pump home for 2 days to continue giving her chemo. After the pump is removed, she has very little energy for at least 6 days after. Not much time is left for her to have before she begins her next treatment roughly 5 to 6 days, she begins to have a little more strength to do things and then the cycle begins all over again. Momma would never ask for help therefore I am doing this for her. If you can help financially, we would be forever grateful and if not, we covet your prayers more than anything during this journey. Momma is a fighter! She is so strong, and I know she is willing to put up a good fight. Thank you all for your support and prayers for her during this time. -Whitney Ansons