Angela Williams's Cancer Journey

                                 “A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal.”
                                                                                                                                              -Steve Maraboli
 
 
Hello Friends, Family, Former Classmates and Co-Workers...


Most of you know Angela  has been recently diagnosed with a rare form of Cancer known as Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC).    This form of Cancer is so rare that it only occurs in 1-2% of all people.    
 
 Adenoid cystic carcinoma(ACC) occurs more commonly in minor salivary glands of the palate on the tongue.  ACC is a malignant neoplasm that accounts for 1-2% of all head and neck malignancies and 10-15% of all salivary gland malignancies … The present case is a rare one on the tongue. 
 
Over the last month Angela has endured multiple surgeries and hospital stays due to complications from the biopsy site of the tumor.  ACC is so rare that it does not respond to chemo and only some forms of radiation.  The only cure is surgical removal then radiation.  

Well, Angela was ready for surgical intervention until last week.  after further scans and meeting with MD Anderson Surgical Oncology Medical Board it was deem the tumor was too large and surgically inoperable, without causing Angela catastrophic changes to her quality of life.   Removal would result in loss of her ability to ever talk, eat or swallow again with placement of a permanent trachea and feeding tube.  Angela has been offered an alternative treatment plan, despite ACC resistance to chemo and radiation she will undergo Proton Therapy Radiation, a new form of chemo and clinical trails to attack the tumor.   

No one is ever financially prepared for CANCER treatment cost.  Angela will incur enormous medical expenses, even with her insurance.   A typical cost of Proton Therapy could start around $30,000 or higher and not to mention her co-pay per doctor visit  is ($40)  with up to 4 visits a day with different doctors 3-4 times a week, out of pocket cost at 20% and other unforeseen medical expense plus parking.   

Angela is currently unable to work and receives limited  disability due to previous medical conditions with the last condition being her heart (3 stents -7 months ago).  

As we stand to fill in the gap of  a  financial burden, we are asking for you to look deep within your hearts and bless Angela with a monetary contribution towards her journey to a better quality of life.  If you are not able to give financially, you might be able to help with rides, meals etc. as every little will become much.  This would be an awesome blessing to her and her family during this time.  If Cancer has never affected you or a loved one, it can be very difficult, along with being a financial burden, as one is fighting for their life and a cure toward Cancer.  This is spoken from experience and it was through the generosity of neighbors, friends and family that we were able to make it through.  
 
Due to her team of doctors limiting her talking because of the tumor we are going to say 'THANK YOU" in advance for your love and generosity! 



                 "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus"               
                                                                                                                                               - Phil 4-19