Chrystal's Village

Chrystal is my best friend, and right now, she’s facing one of the hardest chapters of her life. After discovering a lump in her right breast that didn’t feel right, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Living in Houston, she’s been able to access exceptional care—from her OBGYN in Katy to the team at MD Anderson—and after several weeks of testing and diagnostics, she is set to begin treatment on May 7 with pre-ops the week before. This marks the beginning of a long and demanding road, starting with four chemotherapy treatments administered every other week followed by a new chemotherapy every week for 12 weeks. Through it all, Chrystal remains who she has always been—a deeply devoted wife to Mike and an incredibly present, loving mom to Olivia (14) and Jase (11). She shows up for her family with strength and heart every single day. Chrystal loves fiercely, and now it’s our turn. As her village, we will surround her with that same love and support every step of the way. Her dad, Lynn and Mike will get first dibs on taking her to appointments but a change in scenery will be nice as the weeks go by. The transportation needs may change quickly. We know Chrystal loves food and nutrition so it's important that we provide meals that she will love and which takes one more thing off of her to-do list. The grocery list will be updated weekly to assist with keeping them stocked with necessities. The family's favorite dishes include anything curry, lasagna, enchiladas, tacos, greek/lebonese, sushi, breakfast tacos, salads, mahi mahi and ice cream. Absolutely no dark meat chicken or other weird meats, eggplant, beets, raisins or peas. Chrystal likes to read (thrillers, romance, historical fiction, some fantasy), massages, and cuddling up on the couch for a nap. She also enjoys her daily walk with Gus.