Integrative Cancer Treatment for Holly

My name is Holly, and I live in beautiful Denmark, Maine, USA

 Never did I think I would need a GoFundMe page! 

 I have cancer, and it is tenacious.  After years of paying out of pocket for treatments that are not covered by insurance, I am running out of the ability to continue doing so.

My Husband, and life partner of almost 40 years, died a very difficult cancer death the year before my own diagnosis.  I never suspected I too would be dealing with a similar illness.

 Integrative medical treatment is what I have needed.  I am chemically sensitive and extraordinarily sensitive to most all the usual medicines

 I have chosen life year after year since 2013, when I got diagnosed with a rarer form of Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma called, Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma.  It is a B cell blood cancer with an affinity for the spleen.  My spleen finally had to be removed in 2017.  Then the cancer continued on without the spleen, which is not the usual course.  And then, following one course of conventional treatment, it morphed into a very aggressive Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma that completely blocked the functioning of my lymphatic system.

Near death, my friends moved mountains to get me to An Oasis of Healing Integrative Cancer Center in Mesa, AZ, USA in January of 2019.  My circle of women friends showed up to help at every turn, making this opportunity for healing possible.  My sister, Heather, stepped up to the plate and putting her own life on hold, moved with her dog into my house to lovingly care for my own dogs and handle a rough Maine winter in my stead.  I am eternally grateful for the love and help I have been fortunate to receive while I was in treatment.

I made miraculous progress while undergoing integrative treatment at the Center during my 8 week stay, but needed to come home due to  financial constraints.

Returning home from Oasis, I continued with the treatments that I could afford and procure in Maine, but my latest scans show the need for immediate treatment again. There are some additional integrative therapies at Oasis that are very promising, but my insurance still will not pay for them.

I have great confidence in Dr. Thomas Lodi and his staff at Oasis.  They are professional, knowledgeable, focused, and compassionate.  They have formulated a plan, and are ready to begin treatment as soon as I am able to return. They agree that time is of the essence in the onset of treatment.

So, at this moment I am home, but need again to be in intensive treatment.

I am not done with life!

I continue to be moved by the gifts that cancer brings and am learning a lot in the process. I feel a deep and abiding  need  for the opportunity to be able to give back in some way.

On an even more personal note; it is very hard for me to ask for monetary help.  I am a very private person and I have always taken care of myself and worked and paid my way throughout my whole life. 

But, this time... I can't do it alone.  

So, I am reaching out for your help.

Any amount you choose to donate will be graciously received and appreciated. Every donation will be used to pay for treatment and vital continuing care.  Updates will be posted on this page, to keep you abreast of my progress and the journey.

Thank you for  taking the time to read this.  And, if you are moved to make a donation, I am grateful.

I send love to you.

Excelsior!


Holly Best
Maine