Lakora Cobern

I was recently diagnosed with Stage IIIB colon cancer after undergoing emergency surgery in September 2026. Although my tumor was successfully removed, cancer was found in two lymph nodes, and I must undergo approximately six months of chemotherapy to reduce my risk of recurrence.

Before receiving my diagnosis, my husband and I were planning to start our family. Becoming a mother has always been one of my greatest dreams, and we were looking forward to taking that next step in our lives. Unfortunately, my cancer diagnosis changed everything, and I now face the possibility that chemotherapy could affect my ability to have biological children.

My oncologist recommended fertility preservation before beginning chemotherapy. I have started the process of preserving my eggs and hopefully creating embryos with my husband. However, my health insurance has denied coverage, leaving us with a significant financial burden during an already difficult time.

We are seeking assistance because we do not want cancer to take away our opportunity to become parents. We do not have any children, and preserving our fertility would give us hope for the future as I focus on fighting cancer and recovering.

Receiving a grant would mean more than financial assistance. It would help us protect our dream of having a family and give us something beautiful to look forward to after cancer treatment.