Karen Shipman's Cancer Battle Fund

Dear Readers,

My name is Amanda Shipman, and my mama, Karen Shipman, is the most selfless, hard-working, and considerate person I've ever known. Her hundreds of friends and thousands of students can attest to her courageous, powerful spirit as well as her humor and empathy. Those who know her know she loves her family, her animals, and the great outdoors!

(Grandpa Chuck; Mom, Karen; Me; and Dad, Philip)

In November of 2016, mom was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. As a child, it was scary watching my mom lose her hair, and feel sick like never before, but we had the constant support of friends and family behind us, and by June of 2017 she finished her radiation and rang the bell, signifying her being cancer free!

As of July 2024, test results have confirmed that mom's cancer has metastasized to several new spots in her body. This time we had to endure hearing a doctor say the words "stage four" regarding my mom's breast cancer. This time, her chemotherapy cycles will be gentle, she won't lose her hair, and she will continue treatment indefinitely. This is a harsh and disruptive truth for all of us.

Thanks to our extensive system of loved ones, whose support has uplifted us consistently since the initial diagnosis, we confirmed her present treatment with a second opinion from City of Hope Cancer Center in Los Angeles County, CA.

Our needs continue, as my mama is searching for integrative medicine. This will support her mentally and spiritually, while chemo and immunotherapy meet her physical demands. Unfortunately, integrative medicine is not covered by most insurances, though it is proven to work in her experience. If you yourself cannot contribute to our fund, please send this to at least one other person along with your prayers for healing. We wish you all health and happiness.

Sincerely,

Amanda Shipman