My sister June's Breast Cancer Fund

My sister June is a 2nd grade teacher who teaches at a school in Detroit.  She loves her students!  Since she doesn't have children of her own, she considers them her kids. June lives alone with her cat, Cupcake. She loves to cuddle up with a good book (preferably Pride and Prejudice) and Cupcake. She is not used to being confined inside as she generally walks three to seven miles a day.

In July, June was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was discovered through her annual mammogram--she had no symptoms. Because of the urgency, her first lumpectomy was performed only two weeks after getting the results. Unfortunately, it was found that there was more cancer than had shown up on her mammogram and a second surgery was  done two months later (in October).

Sadly, because they still couldn't get all the cancer, she now needs a double mastectomy. This will take place the first week of December. Because this is such a serious surgery, she will need to be off of work for at least two months. She just found out that the school district for which she works does not provide disability insurance.  She has her health to focus on; I can see the toll of her stress as she worries about how she's going to be able to handle the finances of no income during this time in addition to the stress of the bills; this is not healthy.

The need for funds to pay for medical expenses as well as living expenses while she is off work is urgent. Her surgery is less than a month away, and she already has a pile of bills from her two previous surgeries. It is possible that she will need post-surgery treatments which will require that she takes more time off of work. She will need another surgery in April or May.

June has always been there for those who have needed her. I'm hoping you will join me in being there for her during this both physically and emotionally difficult time. She is extremely independent, and not used to asking for help. I'm her big sister, and I'm asking for help on her behalf. Just one example of her kindness is that one year a co-worker was unable to buy Christmas gifts for her seven year old son. June played Secret Santa and bought her son gifts, wrapped them up, tagged them from Santa and left them on their porch. Her co-worker never knew that it was June who played Santa.

If you are unable to help financially, June will understand. Please reach out to her via her Facebook page with well wishes. She would love to hear what's happening with you while she is laid up and hear some stories of your holidays and see your holiday photos.... June will need laughter because as we all know, that is the best medicine!