Support our Sister as She Battles Stage IV Cancer

No you didn't read that wrong. Less than six months after losing my mother-in-law, the Asanuma family is facing yet another devastating diagnosis. My name is Anne Ashworth, and I am raising funds for my sister-in-law Mariann Asanuma.

Two weeks ago we received the news that no family ever wants to hear. After weeks of pain and tests, Mariann was diagnosed with stage IV of an aggressive form of endometrial cancer, which has metastasized to her major organs and lymph nodes.

A difficult battle is before her, but Mariann is as tenacious as they come. She will begin chemo treatments this week. Currently she is scheduled for three rounds of chemotherapy, with a three week break in between each round.

Ever since she was a little girl, Mariann dreamed of becoming a Master Model Builder. That dream became a reality in 2003 when she was hired to work in the Model Shop at LEGOLAND California. Four years later Mariann became the first female freelance LEGO artist in the world. Over the course of her career she has been commissioned by some of the world's top companies including Google, Warner Brothers, and 20th Century Fox, to create custom models and mosaics all made from LEGO.

As a self-employed artist, Mariann supported herself on commissions. The symptoms of the cancer have already deprived her of two months of wages. In addition, Mariann spent the better part of the last year working heavily reduced hours as she took time away from work to care for her terminally ill mother. She is now facing at least another three months of rent, domestic bills, and now medical bills with no income. She is applying for disability, as well as pursuing other pathways of financial assistance. As a family, we are coming together to support Mariann in her hour of need, and humbly ask that you join us.

For those who would prefer to donate directly to Mariann, you may do so through her venmo.

Thank you, and God bless.