My name is Dana and in July of 2026 I was diagnosed with PANCREATIC CANCER. 

I am currently undergoing Chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgery to remove the mass. I'm aware of the serious aspects of my type of cancer. I caught is early through routine bloodwork with my primary physician. I developed Jaundice while in the hospital and  have an external stent (or drain) implanted. This won't be removed until surgery.

I am also BIPOLAR and have chronic pain from SJÖROGRENS SYNDROME and FIBROMIALGIA.

That's the medical and mental side of my life. But it is not who I am. I'm a published poet. I get excited when the flowers begin to bloom. I take pictures of flowers around my town. I love walks and listening to music. It's my soul release, along with my writing. 

My parents are gone, my sister and brother have passed as well. I never married or had children due to my conditions. So, I am doing this ALONE. I'm a fighter and am finding each day that I'm stronger than I thought. Keeping a positive attitude and following directions concerning treatment. 

I still have hopes for a future. Maybe not as long as I had before the diagnosis. There are still places to go, pictures to take and stories, poetry and screenplays to write. I love learning and hope to be able to attend college classes once I am over this hump. Time is irrelevant to me. I'm alive, and each day I breathe is a good day.

I've discovered that cancer is expensive. And being disabled most of my adult life, I have no nest egg to dip into for extra groceries and supplies not covered by my insurance. Every side effect requires treatment. There are transportation costs, and the financial hits keep coming. 

As I said, I am doing all of this alone. My friends are ill. My extended family is just that... Extended. Help me beat this stage of my life. Your donation help me to pay for my co-pays and life's expenses connected to the illness.