Supporting My Twin Sister's Fight Against Lymphoma

Dear friends and family,

It's with a heavy heart that I share a challenging chapter in our lives. In early November 2023, my identical twin sister, my best friend, Ashley, discovered a sizable painless lump on the right side of her neck. Despite her overall good health at 32, doctors were puzzled. Further investigation revealed a rapidly growing tumor, leading to excruciating pain and facial paralysis.

After several tests, a biopsy confirmed that Ash has cancer and that the tumor is in a risky location for complete removal. The final diagnosis, revealed Stage 4 Burkitt's Lymphoma, a rare and very aggressive blood cancer that has spread to her liver, kidneys, spleen, breast and bones. If left untreated this cancer is fatal.

My sister was admitted the next day to UCSF for intensive inpatient chemotherapy. This news has shaken up our lives. We are devastated, scared & heartbroken.

Ash faces a grueling treatment for the next year with overwhelming short-term & potentially long-term side effects. Her chemo regimen is all inpatient, meaning she has to be in the hospital for months on end. Her life now consists of 3-4 week hospital stays for chemo infusions through a port in her chest. If all goes well, she is given a week long break at home while she recovers before her next round of treatment.

Burkitt Lymphoma requires swift and rigorous treatment, leaving Ashley and our family with mounting medical bills and unforeseen expenses. Her daily living expenses like rent, utilities, dog care, transportation costs, food, and groceries have been exceedingly difficult to manage on top of the emotional toll of this challenging battle.

Despite the hardships, Ash faces each day with remarkable courage, determined to overcome this obstacle and return to the life she loves. My sister’s endearing smile, kind heart, and active lifestyle further illuminate her incredible spirit, radiating joy and vitality in every aspect of her life. Her diligent work ethic and nurturing nature make her a source of positivity and inspiration.

Even with the challenges posed by this cancer, her innate cheerfulness remains undiminished. Her infectious energy touches everyone around her and creates a ripple effect of optimism and strength. The emotional support from family and friends has been invaluable. Ashley finds solace in brief visits with her beloved puppy, Ziggy.

This unexpected journey has disrupted our lives; Ashley had to leave her full-time job, and I've reduced my work to be her primary caregiver. The financial strain compounds our challenges, prompting us to seek your assistance.

Your contribution to this GoFundMe will help to alleviate the financial burden, allowing Ashley to focus on recovery.

Your support is immensely appreciated, helping us navigate this tough time. Together, let's lift the weight off my sister’s shoulders, enabling her to reclaim her vibrant, loving spirit. I wish for my sister to return to her beautiful, bubbly, and healthy self.

Thank you for being a pillar of strength and hope in these trying moments. If you cannot donate please share with your friends and family. We are beyond grateful for the support.

With gratitude,

Jen