45-yr-old Mom battling breast cancer

Angela Keefer is a 45-year-old mom to a 9-year-old son, Gabriel, and a wife to a long-time Baltimore chef, Cyrus. She works for a corporate performance management company and is active in her church while leading a weekly Bible study group. She is also a two-time breast cancer survivor.

Her first diagnosis was in November 2008 at the age of 31. She underwent a lumpectomy surgery during which it was discovered that her cancer had spread to two of her lymph nodes. As a result, she had another surgery to remove all seventeen of her nodes underneath her right arm. She received six rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and for the past 10 years has taken daily medication to prevent her cancer from returning. During this time Angela developed lymphedema in her right arm. Lymphedema is the build-up of fluid in soft body tissues when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. This condition caused Angela’s right arm to swell to twice the size of her left arm.

 

In April 2021, Angela went in for a routine mammogram where they discovered that the cancer had returned. She made the decision to have a bi-lateral (double) mastectomy followed by a total hysterectomy in hopes that this would prevent a third bout with cancer. After having the mastectomy, her arm swelled even more causing restricted movement of her hand. Angela's treatments have included lymphatic massage, tailored compression sleeves, lymph drainage, and physical therapy exercises 5 days per week for at least 5 weeks. This treatment plan may also require the purchase of a lymphedema pump for home use after completion of the treatment to prevent reswelling.

 

Unfortunately, with all the accumulating medical bills, some of which have already gone into collections, Angela is unable to afford the necessary treatments to restore her arm to a size that is comfortable and functional.

 

This fundraiser is to relieve the family of their of their past and most recent medical costs so that Angela's mind can be free to focus on her recovery while also raising Gabriel. Cyrus and Angela will be most grateful for any funds that can be raised.

 

[Note from organizer: I am a part-owner in a Baltimore restaurant where Angela and Cyrus both worked during our early days when starting the business. Angela was loved by all of the customers and staff and always had a big smile and kind word for others. We just wanted to give back to her during this challenging time for the Keefer family. I appreciate your help! - Michael]