Support for Andrea Burton

Hi, my name is Maria Dawn Burton Linville. I am the only child of the best single mother any girl could ask for, Andrea Gail Burton.

My mother, Andrea Burton (Aunt Aundie and Andi to some of you) was diagnosed with stage 4 Esophageal Cancer on September 11th, 2023.

Our worlds were turned upside down in an instant. The cancer had progressed to far. The mass in her esophagus was so large that surgery to remove the mass was not an option. The cancer had spread to her liver so radiation was not a possibility either. We tried several procedures but nothing worked like we'd hoped for. Mom has still been unable to digest anything even though she has an esophageal stent and a G/J tube.

We spent weeks in the hospital trying to navigate the best plan of care to give Momma the best quality of life. We decided on coming home with hospice care.

I have been with mom since her diagnosis. We've spent 35 days now in this battle. Inpatient at St. Vincent for 16 days. Home for 7 days. Inpstient hospice for 7 days. But now, now we're back home. Momma is home and we're resting. Spending our time watching our favorite shows, listening to our favorite music, dancing, laughing and loving.

I resigned from my full time job at the beginning of September when Momma got her diagnosis. I wouldn't leave her side for more than an hour which made work a little impossible.

We have had amazing people in our lives who have helped a lot along the way. Unfortunately, I have to continue to be as vulnerable and brave as I can right now. Asking for help is not always an easy thing. I have had great family and friends answer my calls for help. I am so greatful for everyone that has held my hand through this journey. Momma has several medications she has to take several times a day through her G tube. Along with her G tube she also has a picc line that has to be maintained. Some medications are given at 4 hours, some at 6 hours, some at 8 hours and some twice a day. I am trained to help her with all of this. Because medications are due at such different intervals and requires so much preping (crushing pills, etc.) I am unable to have a full time or even part time job.

We are in need of financial assistance. Without either of us working it's been harder to get things paid and our savings account have taken a dent. From small bills to big bills. The small things like medical supplies and prescriptions not covered by insurance add up. The bigger things like gas money for the multiple weekly trips to the pharmacy, househokd supplies, and utility bills pile up quickly.

I humbly ask that you donate a little if you're able to help us in this time. Any donation or act of kindness helps. Please, pray if you believe, Mom does. Please, keep us in your thoughts, give us the grace, space and privacy that we need at this time.

Please, send me your full name, email address and mailing address when you donate. Thank you!