Tonya “Yaya” Dickerson is my amazing sister, and one of the most incredible people I know. She has a heart full of generosity and has always been there for others in their time of need. Whether it’s lending a hand, offering support, or simply being a shoulder to lean on, Tonya has given so much of herself to those around her. She’s the kind of person who doesn’t like asking for help, even when she truly needs it—but right now, she can’t do this alone.
Last year, she faced a tough battle with breast cancer. Although she started chemotherapy, she had to stop due to a severe allergic reaction. This led to a double mastectomy. But the cancer had spread and was in her neck. Where it could not be removed being too close to her jugular vein. Radiation treatments followed, but the tumor initially didn’t respond. The treatment was intensified, requiring daily radiation for a month. Thankfully, she’s now in remission.
However, Tonya also suffers from congestive heart failure and lung disease. These ongoing health challenges forced her to leave the job and the people she loved.
Currently, her short-term disability benefits have ended, and her long-term disability is delayed, leaving her without any income. She’s single, has no other financial support, and is facing the loss of her medical insurance in July, which will mean starting over with a new deductible.
Recently, in November, she was rear-ended while driving, totaling her car.
To top it all off earlier this year, we also lost our dad. Who was her best friend.
Now, Tonya has been referred to the nation’s top pulmonary hospital for specialized care in hopes of managing her lung condition. This is critical to alleviating stress on her heart, as her heart failure has been worsened by her lungs’ condition. She’s scheduled for an intensive week of treatment starting in February, with follow-up visits as needed. However, she faces a $1,600 deductible, and her health savings account is empty.
In addition to medical costs, she needs funds for travel from Utah to Denver, lodging, food, and a rental car. The estimated cost for this trip is about $4,000, as her doctor has mandated she travel with someone for support.
venmo:
If you’d like to make a cash donation, please reach out to me (Kassie) or Stacie Shaw.
Tonya has spent her life helping others, and now she needs our help. Any support is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your kindness and consideration.