A resident from Gordon Park has started a fundraiser to help a friend who has been diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer.
Read: A Marksman Remembered: Billy Sing and His Extraordinary Legacy
Jemma Goos from Gordon Park organised the campaign for her friend Miriam Gard, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has gone through extensive treatments, including chemotherapy, a lumpectomy, a double mastectomy, and the discovery of the BRCA1 gene, which increases her risk of cancer.
After overcoming breast cancer, Miriam, with the support of her husband, Dave, built the family they always dreamed of: three beautiful children—Genevieve, now 10, Christian, 7, and Nicholas, 5.
In September 2023, as a precaution, Miriam chose to undergo a hysterectomy to reduce her risk of cancer later in life. However, just 11 months later, in August 2024, she began to experience bloating. At first, she dismissed it, assuming it was just a normal issue many women face. But after visiting her doctor and undergoing tests in October 2024, the devastating news arrived: she had 3C advanced ovarian cancer.
“This diagnosis has completely changed her family’s life. Due to the aggressive nature of ovarian cancer, Miriam now faces intensive chemotherapy treatments, and a major surgery scheduled for January,” Ms Goos shared.
As the costs associated with scans, oncology appointments, medications, and treatments continue to add up, Miriam and Dave are struggling to keep up with the financial burden.
Miriam, exhausted from the chemotherapy and emotionally drained by her diagnosis, is doing everything she can to stay strong for her children. Despite the challenging circumstances, she and Dave are determined to create as normal a life as possible for their kids, especially during the holiday season. However, the weight of this illness has taken its toll.
This is where the fundraiser comes in. The community is rallying behind Miriam and her family, hoping to ease the financial strain so that Miriam can focus on her treatment and, most importantly, spend time with her children. Every dollar donated will make a real and tangible difference in helping them through this dark time.
“Advanced ovarian cancer is known for having a low survival rate, with only 29% of women diagnosed with advanced-stage ovarian cancer surviving more than five years. On top of that, because of the genetic mutation Miriam carries (the BRCA1 gene), she faces an 80% chance of relapse within three years,” Ms Goos wrote.
“This is why every bit of support is so vital—not only for helping them get through this holiday season but for ensuring that Miriam has the time, resources, and care to fight this battle with all her strength.”
Read: La Familia Coffee: Building Community in Stafford One Cup at a Time
How You Can Help
There are several ways people can help. Donations of any amount are deeply appreciated, as they will help ease the financial burden on Miriam’s family. Sharing the GoFundMe campaign with others will also expand the reach of this fundraiser, increasing the support Miriam can receive. Additionally, even if one cannot donate financially, prayers and positive thoughts are just as impactful.
Ms Goos shared Miriam and Dave are incredibly grateful for the love, strength, and support they have already received. They also thanked everyone who took the time to read their story and for being part of their journey.
Published 27-January-2025
