Family Support & Medical Expenses

Hi, My name is Shantell McCoy, At the age of 38, I discovered a lump in my breast. At the time, my daughter was only six weeks old, and her older brother was three. My initial diagnosis was Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, and to safeguard my life and my babies, I made the decision to have a double mastectomy. My doctors assured me that my chances of recovery were good, and I underwent reconstructive surgery.

Time passed, and my children grew to be six and nine years old, but cancer returned. This time, my diagnosis was HER2 positive, and I underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery to remove the cancer cells from my chest. Unfortunately, the toxic treatments had severe side effects, and my body developed neuropathy, which caused nerve damage in my hands and feet, resulting in weakness, numbness, and a "pins and needles" sensation. This made everyday activities more challenging, such as typing and walking.

Now, I am facing my third diagnosis, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma grade 3 which is more aggressive. Although, I have a job that can accommodate my neuropathy and provide for my family, I have not worked there long enough to qualify for disability compensation. I will need to undergo another total mastecomy, chemotherapy, radiation, again, but this time, I will not have any income.

I am strong enough to ask for help now, and I need your assistance in providing basic necessities for me and my children.