A recent customer at my shop shared her friend's story with me while searching for a gift for her, and gave me permission to pass it on to you. I always feel touched by stories of families going through difficult illnesses . . . and even more so when there are children involved. I can't imagine the heartache and fear a child would feel as she watches her mother battle something like cancer, so I wanted to share with you the story of 3-year old Kloe and her mom, Krystle, who is fighting a very rare and aggressive form of cancer.
"On July 29, 2011 our dear friend Krystle DeBuono, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Nasal Cavity Ethmoid Sinus Cancer after months of being treated for a sinus infection. On August 9th she had major surgery in hopes to remove the cancerous tumor and spent a month recovering with two of the recovery weeks in ICU. Recently, Krystle has been told that the cancer has returned, it is spreading and is very aggressive. She will be in Boston, MA over the next several months to receive chemotherapy and radiation treatment at Mass General.
"Nasal Cavity Ethmoid Sinus Cancer is very rare and typically is found in adults 45 – 85 years old. Krystle is 28 years old so you can understand the severe rarity of her case. The cancer is so aggressive that at this time the tumors caused vision loss out of her left eye.
"Krystle will be faced with major medical bills and due to her illness she has spent several months out of work. Krystle has a loving 3 year old daughter, Kloe, and we want to make her return home stress free. We want to be able to provide Krystle the comfort of knowing that she is financially secure while she is on her way to recovery.
"We will be having a benefit in her honor on Sunday, November 6th from 1pm - 4pm at Daniele's Banquet Specialists in New Hartford. We have cancer bracelets for sale and monetary donations are always greatly appreciated.
"With every breath there is hope and we thank you for your support."
I encourage you to visit Krystle's site and, if you can, make a donation to help cover the cost of her medical bills. I'm sure every little bit, no matter how small, makes a big difference.
