Carissa Garcia

Anyone who knows me knows that I’ve spent my career caring for others as an emergency and critical care nurse. I’ve always been the person who showed up in other people’s hardest moments. Asking for help has never come easily, but cancer has taught me that strength also means allowing others to stand beside you when you need it most. Over the past several months, my life has changed in ways I never could have imagined. I was diagnosed with breast cancer and have been undergoing chemotherapy, with surgery and additional treatment still ahead. Every day, my focus is on getting through treatment and giving myself the best chance at a long, healthy future. At the same time, I lost my job after spending months on unpaid suspension. The loss of my income has come while my medical expenses continue to grow. Today, I picked up just three of my prescriptions, and even with insurance, they cost more than $1,500. Between chemotherapy, medications, specialist appointments, insurance costs, and everyday living expenses, the financial burden has become overwhelming. As if navigating cancer treatment wasn’t enough, I am also working to preserve my relationship with my two minor children through an ongoing custody matter. To protect my parental rights and pursue a resolution that is in their best interests, I have been advised to retain an attorney, which requires a $7,500 retainer. Facing these challenges at the same time has created an extraordinary financial burden while my ability to earn an income has been significantly affected by cancer treatment. If you’re able to contribute, no matter the amount, your generosity will help me cover: Prescription medications and chemotherapy-related expenses Medical bills, insurance premiums, and ongoing treatment costs Basic living expenses while I continue treatment The legal expenses necessary to protect my relationship with my children If you’re not in a position to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much. Every donation, every share, and every word of encouragement reminds me that I am not fighting this battle alone. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your kindness, generosity, prayers, and support. I look forward to the day when I am healthy again and able to pay this kindness forward to someone else who needs it. With gratitude, Carissa