Our beloved Cahaba Elementary music teacher is beginning a challenging journey after being diagnosed with Stage 2, Grade 3 Triple-Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, an aggressive form of breast cancer. Thankfully, recent CT scans showed no evidence that the cancer has spread beyond the breast. Her medical team has developed an aggressive treatment plan that includes chemotherapy and immunotherapy, followed by surgery. While treatment will undoubtedly bring difficult days—including fatigue, appointments, recovery time, and the possibility of losing her hair—she remains determined to begin the school year and continue doing what she loves most: teaching music and pouring into the lives of her students. If you know her, you know her heart. She is committed to creating a joyful, welcoming music room where every child feels valued, encouraged, and excited to learn. She has shared that being with her students will be one of the bright spots that carries her through this season. As a school community, we have already walked through tremendous loss together, and now we have the opportunity to surround one of our own with the same love and support she has so generously given to others. This page has been created to coordinate meals, practical help, prayers, and encouragement so that she and her family can focus on what matters most—healing. Thank you for joining us in lifting her up. Every prayer, kind message, gift card, or act of service is a tangible reminder that she is not fighting this battle alone. We are believing alongside her medical team for complete healing and look forward to celebrating every milestone and victory in the months ahead.
As treatment begins, Tina's immune system will be more vulnerable, and she is being especially mindful of food safety and what she eats. Because her dietary needs and preferences may change from week to week, gift cards are one of the most helpful and flexible ways to support her family. Gift cards to grocery stores allow them to purchase fresh foods that fit her current needs, while restaurant gift cards provide easy meal options on days when cooking isn't possible. *Once you choose "I'll Help" please only include your name on the calendar. You can then go to her WISHLIST below or choose to purchase a local grocery or restaurant gift card* Gift cards purchased through Tina's wish list are delivered directly to her email for easy access. Physical gift cards may be dropped off at the school front office anytime before 3:00 p.m. If you'd like to add an extra touch of encouragement, cards, handwritten notes, flowers, or other thoughtful gestures are always appreciated. Your kindness, prayers, and words of support mean more than you know as Tina and her family walk through this journey. Several friends and family members have asked if there are additional ways to support Tina during this season. If you would like to make a monetary gift to help meet ongoing practical needs as they arise, donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. You can donate via venmo @Tina-Fortenberry-3 and note "Tina Care Fund" in the comments. Thank you for helping care for her and her family in such thoughtful and practical way!