Mallory Lovings: The Light Who Now Needs Us

Mallory Lovings: The Light Who Now Needs Us

If you’ve ever met Mallory Rae Artè Lovings, you know she’s the kind of person who can turn the most mundane moment into something magical. She’s always singing, always smiling, bustin’ a move, and laughing through life. She’s the friend who asks how you are—and really means it. The friend who will chase you around the gym just to give you a hug that’ll leave you gasping for air or ready to call HR. She’s never met a stranger—only potential friends.

On July 23, 2024, I received a text no best friend ever wants to see: “It’s cancer.” At just 28 years old, Mallory discovered a lump on her left breast and was diagnosed with not one, but two types of breast cancer—Invasive Ductal Carcinoma with a Micropapillary feature (Grade 3) and Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) precursor (Grade 2). Mallory now faces a battle that no one should have to fight alone. And yet, true to form, she’s not just standing tall; she’s already rolling up her sleeves, ready to take this on with the fierce determination she’s always shown. Those who know Mallory understand she’s a unique spirit—a beacon of positivity who has a way of lifting up everyone around her.

Back in our hometown of Wood River, Illinois, Mallory was everywhere and knew everyone. Sports, clubs, band—she did it all and made her presence known. Some say that to this day, you can hear her hiccups echo through the empty halls of East Alton Wood River High School. She was impossible to ignore, not because she demanded attention, but because she gave it so freely. Mallory sees everyone and laughs with you in a way that makes you feel you matter, whether you are a lifelong friend or someone she’s just met in passing.

Wood River is also where Mallory confronted breast cancer for the first time—19 years ago, her mom was diagnosed. Mallory stood by her side through it all. I remember us tie-dying shirts to raise money for breast cancer awareness, and I remember her mother beating breast cancer. Conquering is in Mallory’s blood. Now, she’s ready to conquer her own unique path.

Our Virgo Queen thrives on staying busy, being involved, and making sure everyone else is okay. Her idea of a “relaxing day” includes finishing a week's worth of errands before noon and still having time to read her current book by the pool, play some Fortnite/Sims, and get her kitty cuddles from her “gorl,” Mira. So you can imagine how hard it is for her to face the possibility of slowing down, resting, and letting others take care of her. But even now, with so much uncertainty ahead, Mallory is focused on solutions. She’s determined not to let this define her, to continue living life on her own terms, even if that means finding a new rhythm.

Her diagnosis came just a short time after being laid off from her job, adding yet another challenge to an already difficult situation. Despite tirelessly searching for a new job and picking up side projects to stay afloat, Mallory suddenly found herself facing cancer and unemployment. Scrambling to get health coverage after a life-changing diagnosis is terrifying. The cost of just being diagnosed ran into the thousands, and she’s only just beginning her treatment journey.

Now, Mallory needs us—the family, friends, and community she’s always loved and shown up for. Mallory has always been the one lifting others up, and now, it’s our turn to step up and help her. She hates asking for help, so I’m asking on her behalf because she is worth it.

If you’re inclined to help, here’s how you can make a difference in Mallory’s life:

Monetary Contributions: GoFundMe, Venmo, and Zelle are set up for anyone who can contribute financially to cover her medical bills, rent, groceries, and the like. Every little bit helps.

Airline Miles or Gift Cards: These would go a long way in helping Mallory visit her family and grandparents in St. Louis while she undergoes treatment in California.

Positive Vibes: Mallory believes in the power of the mind, meditation, and prayer. If you can’t contribute financially, she asks that you keep her in your thoughts—sexy, peaceful, and positive thoughts, of course.

This is about more than just raising money, though every dollar will make a difference. It’s about showing up for her and reminding her we appreciate all the kindness she has so freely given us over the years. It’s about being the friend she’s always been, the one who makes sure no one feels alone in their darkest hour.

Mallory—I want you to know that you are loved beyond measure. You’ve always been a light in my life, the one who makes even the hardest days a little easier to bear. And now, it’s our turn to be that for you.

To everyone reading this, thank you for taking the time to connect with Mallory’s story. Your support, whether it’s through a donation, a kind word, or simply sharing this campaign, means more than words can express. Together, we can help Mallory overcome this, and in doing so, remind her that her light—her incredible, unstoppable light—will never fade from our hearts.

With love,

Carson Foust