Help Karen survive cancer

A few months ago, my life changed in a way I never expected.

What started as a growing concern about my health led to tests, hospital visits, and eventually major surgery. After my biopsy and pathology results, I was diagnosed with clear cell carcinoma of the ovary.

Hearing those words is something no one is ever truly prepared for.

I underwent a total hysterectomy and major abdominal surgery. Recovery has been physically and emotionally exhausting, but I knew surgery was only the beginning of my treatment journey.

I am currently undergoing six cycles of chemotherapy, and I have completed four cycles so far. Each cycle comes with laboratory tests and follow-up consultations, and before every new chemotherapy cycle, I need another set of laboratory tests to make sure I am fit to continue treatment.

After my third chemotherapy cycle, I had a CT scan for monitoring. The results did not show clear evidence of recurrent ovarian cancer in the abdomen or pelvis, which was encouraging. However, there were also several findings that require further evaluation, including small lung nodules, right pleural thickening, bilateral breast masses, bladder wall thickening, and ureteral inflammation.

Because of these findings, I have been advised to undergo additional tests, including a mammogram and breast ultrasound. I am also scheduled for a cystoscopy and stent removal this Friday to further evaluate the bladder findings.

And my treatment doesn't end after the six chemotherapy cycles.

After completing chemotherapy, I will need continued monitoring, including CT scans approximately every three months. Each scan can cost around ₱30,000, on top of laboratory tests, consultations, medications, procedures, and other medical expenses that come with ongoing cancer care.

The financial burden has become overwhelming for me and my family.

I never imagined that I would one day have to ask for help like this. I have been trying to contribute to my own treatment by creating and selling artwork, digital products, and other items online, while also reaching out to people who may be willing to help.

But despite everything I'm doing, I still cannot cover all of the expenses on my own.

I am choosing to ask for help because I want to continue my treatment and keep fighting.

Every donation, no matter how small, can help cover my chemotherapy-related expenses, laboratory tests, consultations, procedures, medications, imaging, and continued monitoring.

If you are unable to donate, sharing my story may be just as meaningful. One share could help this reach someone who is in a position to help.

This journey has been one of the hardest things I've ever experienced. I am tired, scared, and uncertain about what lies ahead, but I am still here, still undergoing treatment, and still hoping for more time.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, for your kindness, and for helping me hold on to hope.