Help Our Friend Brandy Fight Breast Cancer and Heal
If you’ve ever met me, Brandy, you probably know me from the baseball field, cheering on my two boys. My family and I have called Freeport, Florida, home for the past 10 years, and this incredible community has truly become our family.
My husband and I met when we were just 22 years old. We both grew up in Ohio, and over the years my job with Columbia Sportswear took us on quite a journey, living in Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina, and finally settling in Florida. This October, we’ll both celebrate our 44th birthdays—exactly two weeks apart.
Together we’ve built a beautiful life and raised two amazing boys. Kase is 5 years old and getting ready to start kindergarten, and Slate will turn 10 in October as he begins 4th grade. Our world revolves around family, faith, and baseball.
Life changed dramatically in January when I was laid off as the company was downsizing and closing the store I managed. During my time of job searching life changed beyond anything I could fathom.
After finding a lump in my breast, I went to my doctor and also requested blood work because I knew something wasn’t right. The results were overwhelming. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and Graves’ disease, and then came the news no one ever wants to hear: breast cancer—invasive ductal carcinoma.
As more test results came back, we learned that my liver is also struggling, and several of my lab values are dangerously elevated. My body is fighting so much right now. Some days, even walking is painful, but I’m determined to keep moving forward.
After carefully researching my options, I spoke with the team at Utopia Wellness. For the first time since all of this began, I felt hopeful. They offer the comprehensive, personalized treatment approach I’ve been searching for, and I’ve decided this is the path I want to take.
Unfortunately, this treatment comes at a significant financial cost. The program, including housing, is expected to cost approximately $50,000, with weekly payments of $5,000–$6,000. This is far beyond what our family can manage while also navigating medical appointments, everyday expenses, and caring for our two young boys.
If you’re able to donate, no matter the amount, it will help bring me one step closer to receiving the care I need. If you aren’t in a position to give, sharing this fundraiser with your family, friends, and community would mean the world to us.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your prayers, your encouragement, and your generosity. We know this road won’t be easy, but we’re trusting in God, leaning on our community, and believing for healing.
Thank you for standing beside our family during the fight of our lives.
