Hello to Susan Leatham Kennedy’s clients, friends, and family!

As most of you know, Susan has been battling pancreas cancer since July of last year. After nine rounds of chemo and 30 radiation treatments, her tumor shrunk significantly and she was scheduled in March for Whipple surgery to remove the remaining tumor. During the diagnostic laparoscopy the day of surgery, small cancerous spots were found on her liver, which meant surgery could not proceed. This now puts Susan’s cancer at stage 4. She is undergoing chemotherapy again to try and keep everything at bay, but there is no other available treatment in the US at this time. Chemotherapy in perpetuity to control the spread is not an ideal way to live, but it’s the option that keeps Susan alive. However, she has found a promising immunotherapy

Immunocine Cancer Center specializes in dendritic cell therapy, where the patient’s cells are extracted and a custom vaccine is developed. The treatment boosts the patient’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This therapy is currently going through FDA clinical trials (Immunocine is in year three of a possible 10-year process), and has very promising results for those who qualify for the treatment. Susan has been accepted to the program, but currently insurance does not cover dendritic cell therapy.

Susan does not like asking for help, yet is always up for helping others, monetarily and otherwise. This is why I’ve stepped in to create a fundraiser, and I know we can get this possibly life-saving treatment covered for her. Cost shouldn’t deter a patient from receiving treatment, and the stress of finding a way to pay for said treatment when you’re sick isn’t ideal!

The beginnings of immunotherapy would start in June, with return trips in July and August. Your donations will cover all treatments, flights and accommodations for the 3-4 trips required, and Susan’s loss of income in these months ahead. She’s been too ill from chemotherapy to work much, but immunotherapy does not have the same horrible side effects.

I would love to surprise Susan with the funds needed, so she can go and receive treatment without financial stress, and focus on healing and hope for survival. Any amount of help is greatly appreciated!

Thanks everyone! ❤️