Team Shelby - Breast Cancer Treatment Fundraiser

A member of our family has been impacted by breast cancer and in an effort to support her and her family, we're raising money to help Shelby and Evan cover the cost of the treatment and medical bills. Below is a breakdown of why we are raising money and how the money will be used.

Out of pocket cost so far:

Egg Harvesting - $8,000

Testing/Biopsy - $3,000

Treatments/Appointments - $2,000

Surgery - $4,000

Post-Op Medication - $2,000

Radiation - To be determined

Continued treatment - $10,000

Based on these numbers, we're attempting to raise $40,000 to help cover the cost of these procedures, treatments, medications, and appointments.

Here is a glimpse into Shelby and Evan's journey so far:

In the midst of life's unpredictable twists, Shelby's story is a testament to resilience, unwavering love, and the strength to conquer adversity. We invite you to join us in supporting Shelby as she navigates her battle against breast cancer with remarkable courage and determination.

Shelby's journey began with a gnawing realization, an unsettling development under her right arm. An ever-optimistic soul, she prayed that her worries were mere shadows of imagination. Over time, she shared her fears with her life partner, her confidant, and her rock. In a tender moment, he held her hand, a silent pact to face whatever lay ahead, together.

Amidst midnight tears, Shelby found solace in the comforting presence of Evan, her pillar of strength. A tumultuous journey was about to unfold, revealing tests that would challenge them both emotionally and physically.

The first ultrasound captured a poignant scene, their intertwined hands illuminated by the glow of the monitor. The surgeon's intense focus as he examined the area cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful moment—a couple's first ultrasound. A symbol of life's beginning had transformed into a battle against the unknown.

Biopsy day brought palpable tension, shaking hands, and steadfast support. Evan's unwavering presence steadied Shelby as the surgeon delicately extracted thirteen samples. These seemingly simple actions carried immense weight, representing the gravity of the challenge they were embracing.

Days turned into a whirlwind as they attended a cherished wedding, their secret tightly held. Their outward smiles belied the storm brewing within. Incision strips fell in the bathroom, a private reminder of the struggle they kept hidden, ensuring their loved ones' joy remained untouched.

And then, an appointment changed everything. In hushed voices, the surgeon's words shattered the calm. Breast cancer—a phrase that transformed their world, conjuring a flood of emotions: anger, fear, and a heartrending realization. In that moment, as their eyes met, the weight of a potential future without children became an additional burden. Yet, they were united, resolute in their commitment to face the storm together.

The darkness was pierced by the radiant strength of family, ready to tackle this new challenge. In just forty-eight hours, recommendations were gathered, leading them to a confident and knowledgeable specialist who offered hope and guidance.

Four avenues of treatment lay before them, each requiring further testing. A research trial emerged as a hopeful path, presenting three options, each with its own balance of standard care and trial drugs. A glimpse of light amidst the darkness.

With hearts held high, Shelby and Evan were selected for the full trial drug—a testament to their unwavering determination. But the journey wasn't over; it was just beginning.

Before treatments began, they embarked on a challenging journey to harvest eggs, an emotional rollercoaster that tested them both. The process was punctuated by daily injections, ultrasounds, and a cascade of emotions. Evan's strength held them steady, and in the end, fifteen eggs were collected.

Treatment days arrived, marked by blood draws, vital checks, and the haze of medications. The term "vampire" echoed in Shelby's mind as she endured the necessary tests, her body battling the side effects. Work became unmanageable, and Shelby made the difficult decision to prioritize her health.

Surgery introduced a new chapter, a surgical journey to remove the cancer's reach. With a surgeon's precision, they extracted more than just the tumor—a process compared to uprooting an entire tree. Shelby emerged from surgery with a new challenge, battling pain and discomfort while clinging to hope.

Today, we stand at a juncture. The journey continues, and Shelby's determination remains unshaken. Radiating courage, she faces a road of treatments, drug injections, and radiation. The word "cure" lingers, a beacon of hope, yet tinged with uncertainty.

Shelby's fight is not just against cancer; it's a battle for her creation, her future, and her family. Join us in standing by her side, as she continues to inspire us all. Together, we can redefine the concept of "cure." Let's learn, support, and triumph over cancer as a united force.

Shelby's story is one of resilience, unity, and unyielding hope. As she battles breast cancer, we invite you to be part of her journey. Your support will not only alleviate the financial strain but also serve as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. Join us in rallying around Shelby, as she takes on this challenge with courage and determination. Together, let's redefine what it means to conquer cancer.