A few weeks ago, Gabbie’s life took a terrifying turn. What began as a simple trip to the ER quickly turned into every mother’s worst nightmare. After experiencing troubling symptoms, Gabbie was sent for an MRI. That’s when doctors discovered something no one ever wants to hear- a tumor on her brain. In an instant, this devoted single mother of three went from planning dinners and school drop-offs to planning for brain surgery. Gabbie is the sole provider for her children. She’s the one who makes sure they are fed, loved, supported, and safe. She’s always been the strong one, the steady one, the one her kids and friends can count on. Now she needs our help more than ever. Gabbie didn’t waste a second. She packed her bags and headed to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, hoping for the best but preparing for the worst. Over the course of three exhausting weeks, she went through endless rounds of scans, pre-surgical testing, consultations with specialists, and ultimately, major brain surgery. The tumor was located dangerously close to the part of her brain that controls movement. Surgeons were able to remove about 93 to 95 percent of it. Unfortunately, a small portion had to be left behind. Taking it out completely would have risked permanent damage to her motor functions on the left side of her body. Then came the most devastating news. The tumor was malignant. Gabbie has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 Oligodendroglioma — a rare form of brain cancer that requires intensive treatment and can in some cases be aggressive. Thankfully in her case, it appears to be slow-growing, however she immediately needs to continue treatment to be sure that this is properly taken care of. It is incurable but treatable, and time is everything. Despite recovering from brain surgery, Gabbie now faces the biggest battle of her life. She is about to begin six straight weeks of radiation, five days a week. Each day, she will travel from her home in Hamilton to a treatment center in Atlanta - a grueling three-hour round trip -all while still healing and trying to be present for her children. After radiation, she will go through a short recovery period and additional testing, including another MRI and lab work. Then she will begin chemotherapy. The chemo will last anywhere from six to nine months and will be both physically and emotionally draining. Gabbie will be in and out of work for the foreseeable future. There is no paid leave that she is aware of for this amount of time off sporadically. No backup plan. Just her, her three children, and a mountain of uncertainty. This is where we come in. Gabbie has always shown up for the people she loves. She is the kind of mom who goes without so her kids never have to. She is the kind of friend who makes space, and shows compassion without ever asking for anything in return. But now she is facing a reality no one should have to face alone. We are asking for help to ease some of the weight on her shoulders. There are three ways you can make a real difference right now: A GoFundMe has been created to help cover medical expenses, travel costs, bills, and daily living needs while Gabbie undergoes treatment. A Meal Train is available through this page to make sure the family has nourishing meals during the weeks of radiation and beyond. An Amazon Wishlist will be added soon for those who want to send essentials, comfort items, or small surprises to lift Gabbie’s and her children’s spirits. Every single contribution matters. Whether it’s five dollars, a meal, a kind message, or a shared post, your support means the world. This journey is long. The road ahead is uncertain. But with love, support, and community, Gabbie does not have to walk it alone. Another way that would help Gabbie and be much appreciated would be Gas Cards. These will be so beneficial to her as she will have to travel 3-4 hours roundtrip 5 days a week for at least 6 weeks and then also travel to Jacksonville again. Let’s rally around this incredible mother. Let’s help her fight for her health, her family, and her future.