Darlene's Ray of Hope

Hello! My name is Tangi Smith and I am creating this campaign for my coworker and best friend, Darlene Seifert-Miller.  Darlene has worked for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue for over the past 29 years.

Two years ago Darlene was diagnosed with Cholangiocarcinoma (Intraheptic Bile Duct Cancer).  I have watched this amazing woman take on this battle full throttle.  Through surgery, chemo and radiation she has held on to her sense of humor and kept a smile on her face.  She has continued to work full time to the best of her ability.  There have been so many days I have seen her come to work so sick in order to bring home a paycheck and hold onto her benefits.
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Unfortunately, a few months ago her insurance provider decided not to cover her chemo treatments any longer stating these particular chemo medications are not categorized to treat her type of cancer.  Darlene's oncologist is appealing and providing official documentation from the National Cancer Institute proving this chemo could possibly cure her or at least provide her with more time to live.

While this ongoing denial of crucial benefits goes on and the financial burdens become heavier, from the loss of pay and trying to pay for chemo herself, precious time is passing by allowing the cancer to infiltrate more.

I, with all humility and gratitude, ask for your assistance to help my dearest friend and our fire fighter family member to at least be given the opportunity to see if this new chemo will work and also relieve some of this horrendous financial burden that is being layed upon her.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping keep her ray of hope alive.  God bless you all.

Sincerely, Tangi Smith