On May 17, 2023, Becky was taken by ambulance to the hospital for chest pain and shortness of breath. CT scan showed a large mass in her left lung and she was urgently referred to pulmonologists and oncologists. Many more tests were done over the next months of daily appointments and there were delays due to Becky’s complex health conditions; several types of specialists were consulted including endocrinology, genetics, and others in addition to pulmonologists.

Ultimately on June 16, Becky was given the devastating news that her lung biopsy results showed an aggressive inoperable lung cancer, Small Cell Carcinoma. The oncology team required her to have jaw surgery for ongoing infections and recurring facial cellulitis before starting immunosuppressive chemotherapy. The oral surgery involved cutting a bone from the roof of her mouth, extensive incisions, extraction of all teeth, which has been a long painful recovery and of course causes difficulty eating. On July 18, Becky began cancer treatment at Roger Maris Cancer Center of concurrent chemotherapy and daily radiation, which has taken such a toll. The treatments have many adverse effects including pain, nausea, weakness, fatigue, and radiation esophagitis. Getting adequate nutrition is an ongoing struggle, but she is trying all kinds of soft foods, protein drinks, etc.

Becky grew up in Fargo, ND, and has raised 3 amazing children in Moorhead, MN where she resides with the love of her life, Tim Ness. Tim has had to take a lot of time off work to take her to appointments, tests, and procedures and has been a wonderful source of support throughout these very difficult times. Becky always worked in human service jobs helping others until her health decline made it impossible to work anymore.

Every moment with loved ones has always been precious, and now even more so. Becky is determined to over come this cancer against the odds and wants to be there for her family as long as she can. Becky is very grateful for all the love and support she has received and for her medical teams at Sanford and Essentia.

Lend A Hand Up will boost your online donation 20% to make your generosity go further – all proceeds go to Becky and her family.  Cash/Check donations must be made payable and gifted directly to Becky.