Rita Wadhwani's 2nd battle with breast cancer

Dear family, friends and all compassionate people.

With a heavy heart, I reach out to all of you in this time of need. My name is Karan Wadhwani and it pains me to tell you that my beloved mother Rita Wadhwani’s breast cancer has returned after 24 years. Soon after her birthday on May 3rd, 2022, Rita was admitted to the ER. MRI scans revealed bone lesions in her body. A biopsy determined the lesions were stage 4 breast cancer, the most advanced stage.

I am starting this GoFundMe drive to help her pay for current and future medical bills, premiums for continuing coverage under her current medical plan and other unexpected medical expenses she will undoubtedly have. 

Rita is a wife and mother to three boys (Rahul, Karan and Samir). She is a frontline healthcare worker and an active member of her community. Many know Rita as a strong, positive, caring, and compassionate person who helps others quietly or anonymously.

She is an activities assistant at a senior care facility for people who are terminally ill, have dementia, cancer and other conditions. She steadily motivates, meditates, prays, and listens to them without judgment, intending to integrate them into activities for their wellness and recovery. 

Facing her health conditions bravely, she maintains her focus, determination, and uplifting demeanor! Residents get to smile and laugh daily. Both residents and her coworkers love her calm demeanor and positive attitude and want her to return. The latest diagnoses have affected her. She feels anxious and concerned about continuing to do what she most loves: helping and supporting others.

Despite these challenges, she returned to work on September 1, 2022, but has exhausted all her sick leave. She will not have any income for the time taken off for ongoing treatments and doctor’s visits, further adding to her financial burden. 

Depending on the response to her current hormone treatment, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy may be administered. Treatments like bone-strengthening injections and physical therapy for pain management will also be carried out.

Given such an advanced cancer stage, treatment is unlikely to result in complete remission. Rita's cancer will have to be managed as a chronic condition with a regimen of medications, periodic tests and visits with her oncologists at regular intervals. Insurance covers only some, but not all, costs incurred during the treatment. As her health is her main priority, she needs your help and support to ease this financial burden and her stress, all of which will aid her recovery.

Rita has consistently put others before herself. However, she now needs your support. As she begins this journey again with breast cancer, I humbly ask for your help in providing any financial support for her. Whatever amount feels right for you will be genuinely appreciated. We ask that you also take a minute to share this fundraiser with your social media followers, friends and family.

Your prayers and generosity are sincerely appreciated.

Thank you!