My girlfriend Cathy was recently referred to a dermatologist after her primary care provider became concerned about a growth on the side of her nose near her eye. Over time it had been getting larger, and when the biopsy came back positive for cancer, our world stopped.
From there, everything moved quickly. Cathy began treatment at The Center for Health & Healing, where she underwent two eye‑area surgeries to remove all of the cancer. In the process, she lost her left tear duct, had a stent placed, and received internal stitches beneath the surface of her skin.
That same day, she was transferred to OHSU’s Casey Eye Institute for reconstructive surgery. Surgeons took skin grafts from her eyelid and upper cheek to repair the damage caused during the cancer removal.
On top of all this, Cathy also lives with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS)—a rare neurological condition that causes severe, debilitating muscle spasms. The stress, pain, and physical trauma of these surgeries have made managing her SPS incredibly difficult.
She now has an appointment on the 21st with her plastic surgeon to plan two additional reconstructive surgeries. These procedures are not covered by insurance, and the cost is far beyond what we can manage on our own. Cathy is terrified she won’t be able to get the surgeries she needs, and no one should have to face that fear while already fighting cancer.
Through every step of this ordeal, Cathy has shown unbelievable strength, courage, and grace. I could not be prouder of her. She is the kind of person who gives everything she has to others—always the first to help when someone else is in need.
Now, she’s the one who needs help.
If you are able, we are asking from the bottom of our hearts for support with her upcoming medical expenses. Anything helps, and every donation brings her one step closer to healing, recovery, and peace of mind.
Thank you for taking the time to read Cathy’s story. God bless.
