Rachel Hegarty's Cancer Journey

Hi! I just wanted to update Rachel's page with some current information. After a harrowing 3 weeks in the hospital Rachel is now home and has round the clock care. Things have progressed and of course--the long term care isn't covered by insurance. The costs have skyrocketed and we would again appreciate any help by spreading the word and sharing this page--or donating what you can.

Rachel is aware of all that has been contributed for her and wants everyone to know how much she appreciates the outpouring of support and kind words.

Thanks in advance for sharing!

Hi--my name is Rebecca Ruest and I'm a good friend of Rachel Hegarty's. This past year has been extremely challenging since Rachel was diagnosed with stage 3c cervical cancer. In that time, Rachel has gone through what seems like millions of medical tests and procedures including a week-long stay in the hospital with two blood transfusions. She then underwent seven weeks of radiation and (low dose) chemotherapy treatments. Along with the "normal" medical procedures, Rachel has altered her diet, sleeping, exercise, and has been living as clean of a lifestyle as you can imagine to help heal the cancer. She's also worked with multiple alternative medicine practitioners to both help heal the cancer and moderate the pain she's experienced as side effects from treatment. In July she learned that the original cancer had healed as a result of the treatment, but that unfortunately, the cancer had spread to a couple lymph nodes in her abdomen. She's currently considering further treatment options to hopefully finally resolve this, including surgery and more radiation.

Because of the treatments, tests, and recovery, Rachel, who is a small business owner and phenomenal photographer, hasn't been able to work. The huge medical financial burden along with not being able to work because of extreme pain and exhaustion takes a huge toll. My goal, along with her fiancé, Brian, and other friends and family of Rachel's, is to raise some money so her financial burden can be lessened and we can give her one less thing to worry about so she can concentrate on her treatment, recovery, and healing - which is the main goal and the thing that matters most.

Whatever you can give will be greatly appreciated.