Help Gwen Fight Ovarian Cancer - #GwenStrong

Dear Friends and Family,

I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out to share the challenging journey my mom, Gwen, has been on recently.

Background on the diagnosis

Last November, amidst what seemed like a regular day, my mom developed an intense infection. Without hesitation, my brother, Demarkus, rushed her to the hospital.

After a thorough examination, a team of doctors determined that Mom required a full hysterectomy. The surgery was successful, but further pathology revealed masses on her ovaries that were malignant. On January 12, 2024, her birthday, Mom received the devastating diagnosis: Stage IIIA1(ii) ovarian cancer, clear cell carcinoma.

Treatment Path

With heavy hearts, we embarked on the treatment journey. In February, Mom began chemotherapy to combat the cancer. However, our hopes were met with another setback. Before her second chemo treatment in late February, Mom suffered a severe adverse reaction to Avastin, a medication used in her treatment, causing a condition known as Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES). She temporarily lost her eyesight, and her blood pressure skyrocketed dangerously high, exceeding 180.

High blood pressure runs in our family, complicating matters further. Consequently, we made the decision to seek further care at Barnes Jewish Hospital – Siteman Cancer Center, a tertiary center offering the specialized treatment she needs to fight this aggressive cancer.

At Siteman Cancer Center, Mom has access to an infusion center close to home, where she will receive her treatments. Additionally, she's supported by a nurse navigator who assists with education, nutrition, long-term treatment planning, and connecting to essential mental health support.

The Ask

We're fighting hard, but we can't do it alone. Gwen is a single mom of two adult children, and the financial burden of medical costs, transportation to treatment, lost time at work, meal support, and medications is overwhelming. Now, with the added risk of stroke due to her condition, we must remain vigilant, which comes with its own set of costs.

As we navigate this challenging chapter, we're reaching out to our community for support. My mom has been a pillar of strength for so many of us, a cheerleader, and a sounding board in times of need. Now, it's our turn to rally around her and provide the support she needs to fight this battle.

With your help, we can alleviate some of the financial stress and allow Mom to focus on what matters most: fighting Ovarian cancer. Together, we can give her the fighting chance she deserves.

Thank you for considering supporting Gwen on her journey to overcome ovarian cancer and the adversities that come with it. Your generosity and kindness mean the world to us.

For updates, please join our Facebook group - Standing Strong with Gwen.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Darein & Joe