By Coretta Joe
“Dealing with cancer is hard, and you need that genuine support.”
These words were uttered by Rene King as she shared her story in the hope of reaching her goal of raising BBD$80, 000 to assist with medical costs.
King disclosed that she has always had health issues and has had numerous surgeries and procedures done over the years.
However, it was in July 2022 that things took a scary turn.
During a visit to her doctor in early July, he discovered a lump and swiftly sent her for a mammogram and an ultrasound.
While the mammogram was inconclusive, the ultrasound showed a dense area and
a biopsy was requested.
When she received the results on July 14, she was informed that she had invasive ductal carcinoma and underwent a bilateral mastectomy on July 27.
“During the night after surgery, I developed a hematoma. This was monitored, and after my discharge, the surgeon tried to work on it in his office. This was not a pleasant ordeal, and due to constant bleeding, I had emergency surgery on August 8,” she explained.
But more bad news followed. When her histology results were returned, she learned it had spread to her lymph nodes. She admitted that if not for her friend Jacqueline King, she would relapse into depression.
“When everything becomes too heavy on me, it is Jacqui who holds my hand through it. So proud to say that she is a survivor of one of the most aggressive cancers — she is a friend and mentor,” she revealed.
King has started chemotherapy and noted that this would be followed by radiation,
then hormone therapy because her cancer feeds on estrogen.
“Chemo is not easy. I’m currently dealing with a low white blood cell count, which means that I am highly susceptible to infection.
“Unfortunately, the needed drugs were unavailable and had to be ordered. But due to the pandemic, the cost doubled, hence
my dilemma.”
Together, King’s surgery and treatments cost around BBD$150, 000.
Insurance is not an option since she was denied due to her condition. She hopes that an insurance provider would reconsider their stance, even if to allow her to get an annual
PET scan.
She explained that this particular machine was not available on the island and that it would be a significant help to cancer patients.
She is appealing to those who have the means to do so, to support her mission
to beat the odds.
“Times are hard for everyone, but every little bit is a help at this time. I thank you for any support given, and when things are settled, I hope to be able to help and support someone who can benefit from my experience.”
corettajoe@barbadostoday.bb
Persons can donate to Rene’s cause using
the information below:
First Caribbean International Bank
Account Name: Rene King
Branch: Sheraton Centre
Transit Number: 08586
Account Number: 1001226171
For international donations, please visit https://www.remitly.com Details: Rene King + 1 (246) 830-4817.
