Hello, caring community – this is Connie Allen – hoping to receive help for my daughter Rachel, yet again. Two years ago, Rachel required an operation to remove part of a tumor in the back of her eye. Thankfully the tumor was non-cancerous, but pressing on her optic nerve caused extreme loss of vision, pain, & constant headaches. The delicate operation was a success and due to the generosity of folks like you, Rachel has enjoyed the past 24 months largely free from such difficult issues. The financial support we received enabled her surgery, for which we were beyond grateful!
We have just returned for the 3rd time from a visit with doctors at UCLA. The tumor is once again pushing into her optic nerve causing the same painful and debilitating issues. Doctors prefer not to remove any more of the tumor as it is too complicated & doing so carries a far greater risk. Nonetheless, Rachel will have to undergo 6 weeks of radiation to her eye/head area to stop the tumor from growing & to provide optic nerve decompression. These treatments will be conducted at UCLA.
Treatments will be done 5 days a week, requiring Rachel to stay near UCLA for the entire time. While there, she will not be able to work; her insurance does not provide any coverage for lodging or travel expenses. We know times are hard for everyone right now, but we are reaching out for any type of assistance you could offer – it would be so greatly appreciated!
Thank you for your compassion and kindness,
Connie & Rachel