“In 2022, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 bladder cancer. I did chemo every two weeks. Then on January 12, 2023, the doctors did a surgery to remove my bladder. I can’t use the restroom like everyone else and rely on a urinary bag that needs to be emptied hourly.” 

“Despite the successful surgery, there was still cancer left over. Now, I have chemo every three weeks, along with checkups and routine lab work. Most of my treatments are at Stanford University Hospital. I have to drive 251 miles to get there. And that’s just going one way.” 

“Flying would be so much faster – 55 minutes as opposed to 4 hours. But my funds are very limited. My only source of income is SSI. I can’t afford a round-trip plane ticket. This leaves me with an impossible choice: covering essential expenses or receiving the care I need.” 

“Mercy Medical Angels and The Hogan Foundation made everything possible for me. I can fly to Stanford University Hospital and not worry about the high cost of travel. Then, after my treatments, I can fly home and get much-needed rest. Mercy Medical Angels and The Hogan Foundation helped me maintain financial stability. They improved my quality of life and helped my physical and mental wellness remain stable.” 

“I can’t thank Mercy Medical Angels enough for what they do. They truly are angels.” 

~Karen