Breast cancer is not uncommon to Maria Ines. Four of her friends have breast cancer. So, when she felt a small lump on her breast as well as sporadic shooting pains, Maria Ines quickly booked an appointment with her doctor.

She soon learned she would join her friends in their journey towards recovery from breast cancer.

Selling tamales to help pay her bills, Maria Ines had little opportunity to rest despite feeling very tired. Living and medical expenses kept mounting. She floundered as she sought financial aid wherever she could, including local and national cancer organizations to no avail.

With guidance from her patient navigator, Maria Ines applied for funds from the Renaissance Cancer Foundation. Upon approval, she regained the hope that had dwindled during the past few weeks.

“Help from the Foundation came when I was feeling alone and overwhelmed with worry about my health and the medical bills,” says Maria Ines. “People tell me to focus on recovering, but financial troubles also weighed me down. I am forever grateful to everyone that supports the Renaissance Cancer Foundation!”

Maria Ines will receive her last round of radiation therapy tomorrow at the DHR Health Advanced Care Center. Although it is not the last step in her cancer journey, she is happy to be receiving the oncology treatment she needs.

To help patients like Maria Ines, please DONATE to our Renaissance Cancer Foundation. If you would like to organize a fundraiser, please CONTACT US.

Don’t forget to visit our CALENDAR OF EVENTS for upcoming opportunities to become involved in our mission to help underserved cancer patients in the Rio Grande Valley.