Help Me Fight Stage 4 Cancer While Covering My Basic Needs

Hi everyone,

This is not an ask I ever thought I’d have to make, but here I am—humbled, scared, and hoping for support as I navigate the hardest fight of my life.

Last April of 2024, I was hospitalized for what doctors thought was just an ovarian cyst. They assured me it would resolve on its own. Fast forward to November, and I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, spreading from my ovary to my intestines. Despite this, I was determined to keep working, stay in school, and push through with the fighter in me. I thought I could handle it.

But 10 days before my first chemo treatment scheduled for March 21 of next week, my body started shutting down. The pain in my stomach became unbearable, and my intestines began bleeding—inside and out. Even after the doctors cauterized the bleeding, I stubbornly tried to return to work the next day, making things worse. Now, reality is hitting me hard.

I don’t have Medi-Cal (although I am working on getting emergency Medi-Cal). I make just enough to disqualify me. I do have Covered California, but each ER visit co-pay costs me $450, and I can’t even begin to imagine what the upcoming medications will cost. In just eight days without work, I’m already struggling. My rent is $1,300, and I cover half the household bills—about $190. This does not include the cost of food, hygiene, and gas money to get to and from doctor appointments. On top of that, I’m missing school, though I’m fighting to stay on top of my assignments.

I have no family to turn to for help. As much as I hate asking, I need support to keep a roof over my head and manage basic expenses while I undergo chemo. Any donation, no matter how small, will help me focus on my health without the constant stress of financial survival.

If you can’t donate, please share this with others who might be able to help. I appreciate you all more than words can say.

With gratitude,

Carolina Casillas