Help Rachel Fight Cancer

Hi, my name is Tonya and I decided to start this fundraiser for my good friend Rachel Meerson. I have known Rachel and her daughter, Audrey for years. Over the years we have shared so many life stories, cups of coffee, laughs and some tears. Rachel has been there for me when I have needed her and now it’s my turn to be there for her, but I need help. If you know Rachel, you know that she has the kindest heart. She would do anything for her friends and her daughter. Life is a struggle enough on its own, and now with this new diagnosis, she needs all the support and love she can get.

About six weeks ago Rachel went to the doctor with severe middle back pain. After multiple doses of unsuccessful pain management, she started to notice a tingling sensation as well as numbness in her feet. This past week, Rachel finally went to the ER and got her MRI that she had been waiting weeks for. Unfortunately the MRI showed what is likely metastatic breast cancer which is affecting her spine. Rachel was then referred to Erie, which then they decided it was best if she went to Pittsburgh.

On Friday, February 17th, Rachel had surgery and they removed the T6 vertebrae, which had collapsed and the doctors also stabilized her spine. Surgery went as expected, and she has since moved from ICU and into her own room. We expect that she will be in the Hospital for at least another week, but we will know more in a few days.

I wanted to put together this fundraiser to help Rachel and her family with additional medical costs that insurance doesn’t cover; copays and gas money for future trips to Pittsburgh. Any amount you can contribute will help in some way. Thank you. - Tonya