Shannon's Cancer Battle

My name is Sam and I'm asking for your help to support my friend Shannon (Shay) in her fight against cancer.

Shannon has been battling crippling symptoms of an unknown source since August, ranging from debilitating pain throughout her pelvis, legs, and back, to constant abnormal bleeding. She visited more than 6 different doctors, ERs, and urgent care centers to only receive vague answers and zero relief. Shannon has been through multiple medications, invasive physical therapy, and doctor after doctor telling her this was not a big deal.

In the midst of all of this, at the end of January, Shannon got more difficult news when she found out she was being laid off from her job. She was told she would have COBRA coverage paid for until the end of March. She began looking for another job in her field, taking multiple interviews for open positions, all while continuing to advocate for her health with her doctors and demanding answers. She underwent a procedure to address something seemingly unrelated, and the results came back very conclusive: cancer.

After enduring more invasive scans and exams, on February 24th Shannon was diagnosed with Stage 3 Cervical Cancer that has also spread to multiple lymph nodes, as well as possibly her bladder. In the coming weeks and months, she will be undergoing multiple rounds of chemotherapy, internal radiation, and external radiation. The road in front of her will be long, tiring, and frankly, expensive. Without a job, COBRA coverage for her will run around $900 per month and the Copays for each of her treatments will also quickly add up. This is in addition to the everyday expenses of her mortgage, care for her dogs, transportation, food, etc. We are asking for donations to help Shannon continue her COBRA coverage, which will in turn ensure that she can get the care that she so desperately needs to get well. These funds will also help her with regular and unforeseen expenses during this journey.

Shannon is a selfless person, a dear friend, and an amazing dog mom. She is an active member of the Nashville sober community and an advocate for those of all walks of life battling addiction. She has been a lifelong friend of mine that has accepted and supported me through thick and thin, in every stage of life. No matter if we were 10 minutes or a world apart, she has not hesitated to drop whatever she was doing to lend an ear and help me in any way that she could. Shannon is not one to ask for help, but right now, she needs those of us that care for her to support her in every way possible. Both Shannon and I appreciate your love and support!