Story

Hi, my name is Michou, I’m in my early 40’s, and I am in remission from duodenal adenocarcinoma cancer, stage four. After surviving two years of chemotherapy, five rounds of radiation, and two major surgeries, I’m incredibly grateful to be alive. However, the financial toll has been significant, and I’m now asking for help to clear my debt so that I can start fresh.

Throughout my treatment and recovery, I worked precariously—when I could—while managing the physical and emotional toll of cancer. During this time, I accumulated over $50,000 in debt. This could have been worse, but I used my savings (which I had set aside for a down payment on a home) to cover basic living expenses while undergoing treatment. To make matters more challenging, I was diagnosed at the beginning of the pandemic and my boyfriend broke up with me a few days after I received my diagnosis, leaving me to manage everything on my own, including moving to a small rental, paying for moving expenses, daily expenses, and private transportation to appointments and treatment (I couldn’t take public transportation because I was immunocompromised), plus medications and supplements.

Why I need help. I understand the importance of self-sufficiency, and I’ve been working hard to get back on my feet. I have had the support of my siblings and small group of friends, who have given what they could while I was in treatment (groceries, cleaning my place, helping me with some expenses, making food for me and helping me bathe/wash my hair when I wasn’t able to care for myself). I’ve returned to work as a social worker and now assist patients on their cancer journey. However, the weight of my debt continues to be overwhelming. As I focus on rebuilding my physical and mental health (I have on going medication, supplement, and physiotherapy expenses), I’m struggling to keep up with these financial burdens.

I am seeking financial assistance to help clear my $50,000+ debt so I can finally begin the next chapter of my life without the heavy burden of financial strain.

The funds raised will go directly toward paying down my debt. This will give me the opportunity to focus on my recovery and future goals without being constantly overwhelmed by my financial situation.

By clearing my debt, I will have the space to continue my work as a social worker, support my health, and eventually fulfill my dream of owning a home. Your help will be the catalyst for me to begin living a stable and healthy life again.

Thank you so much for considering my campaign. Your support means the world to me, and if you can’t donate, sharing this campaign with others would be incredibly helpful.