In September 2016 I started to have pain in my right shoulder. I thought I did something to it. In October my shoulder pain was getting unbearable so I went to see my doctor. He referred me to an orthopedic doctor and he sent me to get an MRI. I was at home when the doctor called to let me know he couldn’t help me and he referred me to an orthopedic specialist surgeon. I went to see him and he also sent back for another MRI and biopsy. By December I had 3 MRI, 1 CT scan and a biopsy. I found out in late December that I had SARCOMA. I had to stop working because I could not use my hand anymore. I could not shower myself, I could not go to the bathroom by myself or dress myself. I felt as if my world was crumbling around me. It was at stage 3. The doctor said it was an aggressive cancer therefore it was recommended to do radiation for five weeks to shrink it and then I would have surgery two weeks later. I started radiation in January 2017 but by the second week the pain was so intense I had to have surgery a few days later.
It was now my husband alone that was working and the bills started to get out of control. One day after praying I got a call from the American Cancer society and was told that someone from Helping Hands want to help me with my bills. Helping Hands helped save my home from going into default. They also paid my utility bills. There are no words to express my sincere gratitude for the help I have received.
I have now resumed radiation but am still unable to use my arm to do anything much. The doctor said they did not get it all out as some of it is on the bone. It is so heart breaking and depressing at times, but with foundations such as Helping Hands around I know I will make it.