Help Mama Pye Fight Colon Cancer

This GoFundMe is on behalf of our mom, Andragayle…aka Ms. Pye…aka Mama Pye. Colon cancer is now a term used frequently in our lives now. On March 4, our mom was diagnosed with colon cancer after a large mass was found in her colon. No one wants, expects, or is prepared for the “C-word” to happen to their family. We were paralyzed and devastated by the news, and then the practicalities hit: how, when, what if, how bad, how much. We are humbly calling upon our community for financial support at this time.

Andragayle wears many hats; mother, daughter, teacher, singer, dancer, advocate, and friend. She gives to others before herself, has given countless hours of time and love to her students, works two jobs with hardly a day off to ensure her family is supported, and somehow knows exactly what each of us needs to hear when the going gets tough. If you haven’t had the privilege of meeting our mom, I truly hope you get the chance to see what a powerhouse this woman is.

Andragayle’s personality is infectious. She knows when to lend a comforting ear, when to say just the right things to calm your heart and mind, and when to make you laugh so that things don’t feel so scary anymore. She allows you to feel seen and valued; whether you’ve been friends for years, or are just a stranger she met in passing. There’s a reason she is often called, “Mama Pye.”

As a teacher/advocate/mentor, Ms. Pye has touched the lives of thousands of students over her 25+ years of teaching. I have heard her students say that Ms. Pye is a role model, funny, warm, like a second mom to them, their reason for becoming “book worms”, and overall an amazing person. Many of her students have stayed in touch with her years after they were in her classroom. She prides herself on creating an open, loving environment where all are welcome and differing views are totally accepted. Once you are a student in Ms. Pye’s class, you are in her life forever.

2019 Distinguished Service Award Winner

My Journey to College

While we hope for an uncomplicated surgery at the end of April, our mom will still need to spend several days in the hospital and will be out of work (from both of her jobs) for her recovery. We are asking for donations to help cover the cost of surgery, hospital stay, pre-procedure CAT scans/testing, and additional medical expenses. We know how much of an ask this is of you, her community. My mom, Alexander,, and I are very thankful for any support you can offer. #TeamMamaPye