Barbara Gibson’s Cancer Fund

Hi! My name is Joanne Pach Vent and I am organizing this fundraiser for my beautiful sister Barb Gibson.

Barb has been battling with Ovarian Cancer for almost 16 years (Stage 3 C from 2006-2014, Stage 4 from 2014- present). It’s a miracle she has survived this long, since most people do not live this long with a this type of diagnosis. It has been 15 years of large medical bills, premiums, and out of pocket expenses. They sold their home and chose to purchase a 5th wheel RV as their home to help cut costs. They have never asked for any financial help, but the trial Barb is enrolled in is currently draining their budget. This trial uses Barb’s stem cells along with genetically modified measles virus injected into Barb’s peritoneal port once per month. Other visits are for tests that can only be done at the Mayo lab. Both Barb and Jim have worked hard their entire lives and now their retirement years are burdened with these health issues and expenses. Since March, Barb and Jim have been staying with me and have driven weekly to Minnesota to participate in this trial. One week each month is a 5-7 day stay, alternate weeks are 1-2 night stays. These stays are at hotels, since Barb doesn’t qualify for the Hope Lodge

accommodations because she can be possibly contagious to people with compromised immune systems for a period each month. Mayo does not give a stipend for this trial. This trial has shown to be successful in attacking cancer cells and prolonging lives, possibly complete remission. Barb needs this to work to continue her life. If it doesn’t work, next step will be chemo again, which would be her 6th time. She’s not sure she can handle it again. She prays that she can watch her grandson grow up.

Any amount you can contribute could be helpful and very much appreciated. The cost of airfare, gas, lodging, food and insurance has been a big strain on them.

Thank you so much for your support and your prayers!