Help a young East Ramapo Teacher Fight Cancer!

Nicole Smit has had a challenging start to her teaching career. She began teaching at Summit Park Elementary School in East Ramapo in January 2020, just before the worldwide pandemic. During her second year, her mother had a serious car accident which was tough on her family. In December 2021, the beginning of her third year, Nicole's mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She spent much of the remainder of that school year helping her mother through treatment and juggling the daily craziness of running an elementary classroom.

In June 2022, the unimaginable happened. Nicole found a lump in her own breast. Not only was she diagnosed with the same exact type of cancer as her mother, but she was also diagnosed with a secondary breast cancer.

Nicole quickly sprung into action and began treatment. She spent the summer going through chemotherapy. She is currently being treated for Stage 2 Triple Negative Breast Cancer AND Stage 1 HER2+ Breast Cancer. She receives chemotherapy and targeted therapy at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, NJ. Following treatment, Nicole will undergo surgery for a double mastectomy with radiation to follow. She will also continue targeted therapy through September 2023.

Nicole is in survival mode. She cannot work, and since she is only a third year teacher, she has limited sick days. Unfortunately, these sick days will soon run out, and Nicole will most likely be taken off payroll early in the new year.

At just 26 years old, untenured and currently on sick leave from teaching in East Ramapo, with budget cuts looming and her job and medical insurance on the line, Nicole needs your help. As Nicole's friend and new teacher mentor at work, I got to know Nicole as a warm, intelligent, funny, and caring person who would help anyone in need. She does not ask for much, which is why this fundraiser was not easy for her to accept.

Donations will go to medical costs, bills, living expenses, and potential loss of income and insurance. The added stress of the unknown is not healthy. I hope this provides a sense of comfort for Nicole during this difficult time so she can concentrate on getting well.

I hope you can see it in your heart to donate. Any amount will be greatly appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please pray for Nicole.