“When I was diagnosed with terminal cancer I was unprepared and in shock. I missed 4 months of work post surgery, during which on top of all of our living expenses we have to pay a ton of medical expenses. First we ran out of our savings, then we took money out from our 401k, then borrowed money from family, then eventually had to go back to work in pain just to make sure we covered our bills. Due to everything that is going on, i’m forced to pick up extra shifts which is unsustainable in my current state. I feel like i’m killing myself faster by being at work all day everyday, and am unable to spend what little time I have left with my family and friends”

“I take great pride in my work, and being out of work at this point not providing for my family is very difficult for me. Being out of work and not being paid is becoming too much”

“When I heard the words “you have an incurable, rare cancer” I felt powerless. I still feel the exact same way, now i just have one job- to get better. The only way I can think about doing that is one day at a time. Assistance from Marisa’s mission would help my family stay in our home and keep up with bills while I am focused on getting through treatment.”

“As a single mother, I am the main provider of my family, and with this cancer, my daily routine has been put on hold along with my job and all of my kid’s activities. This process has taken a toll on me. As my cancer has progressed, it has become harder for me to get up and work to pay my rent, and bills, and support my kids. I try every day to be positive and look at the big picture, but sometimes it’s just too hard for me and for my kids to see all that I am going through”