Help my Mom fight stage 4 cancer

This fund is for my beautiful mom, Celia Jepsen.

At age 45, my mom was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. With your help, this fund will help us cover her medical expenses. Most recently, her cancer has spread to her kidneys, and she is currently hospitalized at MD Anderson in Houston.

Her cancer journey:

In May 2020, she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer and within the next month, her cancer drastically changed….. in June, she was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Her cancer has now spread to her kidneys, abdominal lining, sternum, lymph nodes, shoulder, pelvis, ribs, and spine. Her type of cancer is incurable but treatment is crucial as it will help slow down the growth of her cancer cells and extend her life with us. For her treatment, she is taking an oral chemotherapy drug and has monthly doctor exams at MD Anderson in Houston, TX. Together this costs upwards of six figures and we wish we could pay that for her, but unfortunately, even with insurance, only certain parts are covered. My siblings and I are actively applying for funding programs as well and truly appreciate any donations possible. 

Since her diagnosis, she has been adjusting to her new lifestyle. This has not been easy, but she continues to stay positive and is committed to managing this illness as long as she can.

About my mom:

Despite this diagnosis, my mom continues to be the strongest person I know. She is an incredible mom, daughter, sister, friend, and teacher. She is so passionate about helping others and raising educational opportunities for students in need. 

There are not enough words to describe what my mom means to my family and me. She is the core of our family and has filled our lives with nothing but endless love, support, and strength. She is always there for us no matter what and she is who I look up to. She is also an amazing teacher and has always advocated for her students' interests. Now, it is my turn to advocate for hers. If you know my mom, then you know how incredibly hardworking and selfless she is. Whether it be in the classroom or at home, she has always put others before herself. She just spreads SO much positivity and truly motivates us to be our best selves. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, I know many families have been affected by this virus and just life in general. If you can help us give my mom the best shot she has at managing this illness, we appreciate it immensely. As of now, my mom's treatment is focused on extending her life and maintaining her quality of life as much as possible. Her last chemotherapy drug stopped working, so she is currently in the process of trying a new chemotherapy drug (however this is on hold due to her current hospitalization and kidney complications). She will continue to undergo bone scans, and blood samples each month to check the status of her cancer growth and overall health. With your help, this fund will help us cover her travel to medical appointments at MD Anderson (a 2-hour drive from home and hotel stays), exams, treatments, and current hospitalization.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to hear my mom’s story. Thank you to those who have supported her and those who will continue to support her!! We ask you to keep my mom in your thoughts and prayers. Any help is FOREVER APPRECIATED.