Laura's reconstructive surgery
Donation protected
Hi, I'm Laura VanCleave. I was diagnosed with cancer in April of 2014 after seeing a dentist for what I thought was an abcessed tooth. It was actually a tumor called an inverted papilloma in my sinus cavity which turned out to be stage 3 squamous cell cancer. My physician removed it and performed a maxillectomy which means he took out the bone structure on the left side of my face. I lost the support under my eye as well as half of my palate. I am raising money for my reconstructive surgery which the doctors are planning for this summer. I not only look bad as you can see from my photo but I am having problems with my vision as well as eating, swallowing, and speaking. I am already in debt from medical bills. I lost my job, have gone through my savings and 401k, and am no longer eligible for the long term disability from my job. It is not easy for me to ask for help. I have always worked and taken care of myself and my 2 sons. The only help I have ever received was from Social Security for my children after being widowed. Please help me if you can, not only financially, but through your prayers. There are no words to say how thankful I would be for your help. I can only promise to help everyone else that I can going forward. I really did not want to post this photo of myself online, but if it raises awareness of this type of cancer and can help someone else, it will be worth it. God bless.
Organizer
Laura Vancleave
Organizer
Jeffersonville, IN