Help Rachel fight cancer & chronic illness

My dear friend and coworker Rachel has been coping with serious medical challenges her whole life; being in and out of hospitals throughout childhood due to a genetic connective tissue disease, and was first diagnosed with a rare type of thyroid cancer at 25.

In addition to the physical and emotional burden this has been, it’s also been a massive financial one. Despite working full-time and having health insurance, Rachel’s medical debt has become completely unmanageable.

A few months ago during one of her regular follow-up PET scans, there were some concerning results that prompted further testing. That scan alone cost $1,900 out-of-pocket with insurance. Subsequent testing was done that showed more concerning results, which then required more scans and several biopsies. One biopsy alone cost her $1,200. Fortunately extensive tests showed that there was no more cancer spread, however she was diagnosed with a different but still serious illness that will now require specialized care. There will be more testing, monitoring and treatment required in the near and far future, with the costs continuing to pile on.

In 2019, it became necessary for Rachel to do her first gofundme campaign to raise money for cancer surgery, and was able to to cover the cost of her $10,000 deductible which was a huge relief. While that surgery was a success at first, the cancer still spread, and she needed another surgery just 2 years later. In just the past 5 years, Rachel has accrued over $25,000 worth of medical debt, on top of what already existed from the years prior. She is no longer able to afford necessary treatments and medications. Your generous energy exchanged through donated dollars will have a direct impact to improve her quality of life.

Rachel has dedicated her life to helping others. Right now she trains companies on disability and autism inclusion, and does public speaking where she shares her stories in the hopes that increased awareness and education can improve lives.

If you are able to donate, any amount will make a difference and help her get back on her feet. Thank you!