**UPDATE** I've been informed that in order to see this page's update posts, you do have to register as a supporter. If you haven't registered, you can do so (for free!) or just reach out to me directly for the updates. Sorry for the wrong information when I first set this up! Hello, friends, family, and assorted loved ones. There's no easy way to say this: Julie was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, and for the next year or so, she's going to have an especially rough time. It's not going to be an easy road to recovery, and the love and support of her community will be an essential component of her quality of life in the coming months. That's why we've created this page to coordinate care efforts and share updates on how she's doing. Through this space, you'll be able to: - Ask any questions you may have. - Send meals or groceries. - Book times to come visit. - Purchase items from Julie's recovery wishlist. - Schedule a virtual hang out (movie nights are great!) - Receive reminders to send a nice message and/or animal gif (her favorite type of message!). Without getting too much into the details, I want to let you know what her treatment plan entails, so I can give you a clearer idea of where your efforts will be most appreciated. November -> In just a couple of weeks, she'll undergo a double mastectomy, after which she'll need to rest and heal for a few weeks. That's quite a bit of downtime to fill with visits, movies, shows, games, and books. Her biggest desire in this period is to not be alone too much. If you're local, come say hello! If you aren't, book a time to give her a phone call or hang out on zoom/discord/etc. December - ??? -> After she has recovered from surgery, she'll start chemotherapy. We don't yet know what that looks like, but she'll likely go several days in a row, then break for a couple of weeks. These cycles will go on for 3-12+ months, depending on the severity of the need. Sessions may take a few hours, so that's more downtime to fill with activities. Depending on the facility, she may be able to bring a guest. When possible, it'd be wonderful to give her some company. Wishlists on this platform unfortunately must draw from pre-set options, which aren't necessarily items Julie would want. I've listed some suggested items below. PLEASE work with us on timing so that we don't receive everything at once. :) - Giftcards for delivery and/or pre-made meals - Soft things to keep her comfortable (clothing, blankets) - Handmade gifts - Activities to pass the time but that don't require much physical exertion - Shiny things (prisms, sequins, disco balls, etc) In general, there's great advice on how to approach gestures to a cancer patient given in this video from Hank Green (ty Eric for sharing it!): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbwEdqcLiCM We will be posting regular updates as she transitions between treatments, so check back from time to time. Thank you for helping to keep her spirits high!