In July 2000 my sister Darlene learned she had breast cancer, she was 39 years old. In September 2001, my husband Steve’s first wife, Susan, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer; she was 42. Susan lost her battle in December 2004 and Darlene in August 2012. Our story is not unique. So many other families face these same agonizing diagnoses with a family member or dear friend.
We know first hand how expensive a cancer diagnosis can be. When we accompanied Darlene and Sue to their treatments there were many patients having to make choices between feeding their families, pay their rent and other basic expenses instead of focusing on their health and in some cases continuing their treatment. It is not surprising what an unbearable burden this can be on many families. Darlene devoted time to raising support for patients in need of financial support while in treatment. Joining advocates like my sister Darlene, I formed Sense of Security California in 2010.