Please consider supporting one of Ruff Start STX's Foster parents in her battle with cancer. Not only has Shannon been an incredible foster parent to our island pups, but she has volunteered during cruise ship days, donated a percentage of her business' sales to Ruff Start STX, and is a passionate advocate for our organization. Even during her battle, she is fostering a Ruff Start STX rottie named Narnia.

Here is Shannon's story:

I am in need of helpers! Could you be one? Could you be one that has the means or can help spread the word?

At the end of June 2023 at just 46 years old, I was diagnosed with stage 3b cholangiocarcinoma cancer. I had been struggling for a few years with homelessness after being completely priced out of rent, due to a fixed disability budget. In 2015 I had become physically disabled after 30 plus surgeries with bad outcomes, and I had lost my career as a certified Surgical Technologist.

Two weeks before getting the cancer diagnosis I had just moved into a rental home with my adult daughter. My disability budget is fixed at $1000 a month. Paying the bills is tight and leaves nothing for my Battle with cancer. Due to my previous surgical history I am not a candidate for chemo. Due to the tumor size I am not a candidate for surgery, currently. It was thought to be something new, but after moffitt checked the scans, it's been growing for at least the past two years.

My diet is complex because of previous surgeries. Organic raw fruits and veggies in smoothie form, herbs and broths homemade are what I can have right now. There are lots of supplements needed currently that are not covered by insurance and I can't afford. Any and all donations will go directly to buying the supplies that I need to fight this cancer including but not limited to, Food, supplements, Drs co-pays, books, and Dr travel expenses.

Without help and donations I don't stand a chance at fighting this cancer. I have the will and knowledge, but not the means. Any help is greatly and deeply appreciated. I have a Tik Tok so those interested, can follow my fight journey.

Ruff Start Foster Mom Needs Help

By Ruff Start STX

Ruff Start Foster Mom Needs Help