Help Darya Overcome Medical Challenges

Hi everyone,

It’s Britt here. I’m reaching out to help my best friend, Darya. Many of you know her—some have worked with her, others attended the art shows she hosted in her backyard, and some know her as “that girl from Offshore Ale.”

You may also know that she underwent surgery at the end of May to remove three different types of tumors from her breast. Despite the severity of her condition, Darya stayed incredibly strong, sharing the news with only a few. She continued to live and work as much as possible, all while knowing something so serious was affecting her health.

After tax season, her medical insurance changed plans, leaving her with monthly payments of $500, plus additional bills for the surgery itself (anesthesia, surgery room costs, etc.). Instead of asking for help, Darya took on extra work and even started her own business to cover as much as she could.

However, just when she thought the worst was behind her, new symptoms appeared in late August. As a high-risk cancer patient, Darya was seen by her surgeon again at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. After a rushed ultrasound and mammogram, it was difficult to detect any changes due to the extensive scar tissue that had developed, which also causes her daily pain.

The next step was a breast MRI at Falmouth Hospital, which revealed a small tumor in her right breast. As of now, we’re waiting for the surgical team to determine how to address the scar tissue, which causes her significant discomfort, and to decide on the best approach for the new tumor. Since it may be too small to biopsy at the moment, Darya may have to wait a few months for further developments.

Living day-to-day with such uncertainty is mentally exhausting. Despite it all, Darya is staying strong and looking forward to whatever comes next.

Unfortunately, the bills from her September tests have become overwhelming, piling on top of what she’s already been paying. She had to stop working for a month to negotiate a better insurance plan to cover future medical expenses. As we all know, being without work and a daily routine can take a toll. Darya is starting a new job this week to support herself and her family, but I feel it’s my responsibility to help my friend avoid being buried in medical bills—especially with winter approaching.

Darya would never ask for help herself—she’s too proud and determined. In fact, I can already hear her saying, “I’ll never leave my house again” because of the embarrassment she feels asking for support. But I strongly disagree. I truly believe this community can rally around someone who has given so much to the life and spirit of the Vineyard.

Thank you for your kindness and support