In July 2023, Shana was diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer.  The oncologists here in Colorado told us that this kind of cancer was “untreatable” and “uncurable,” and that Shana had only about 3 months to live.  Shana had “innumerable” tumors in nearly every part of her body, from the top of her head down to her ankles.  Several hundred tumors, at least.  They offered palliative care to ease the pain, but no hope.  There was nothing they could do.

But we weren’t satisfied with that prognosis and felt that only the Lord could number Shana’s days.  Based on recommendations of many others, we sought alternative treatment at the Oasis of Hope cancer hospital in Mexico.  This hospital has been operating for over 60 years, and their track record in treating cancer – especially breast cancer – is remarkable.  Though Shana’s case was admittedly very severe, the doctors there were confident their treatment would be effective.

Our first visit to Oasis of Hope was in August 2023.  We were there for 3+ weeks, undergoing a variety of treatment – from diet, to ozone, to infusions, and specifically a cancer vaccine Oasis created utilizing Shana’s own blood and her own tumor (extracted via lumpectomy at Oasis).  We were impressed by the science behind these treatments – and especially by the caring Christian doctors and staff who work at Oasis.  (Oasis of Hope is a distinctly Christian hospital, where faith plays a major role in treatment and recovery.)

We returned to Oasis 3 months later, in November 2023.  Nearly 75% of Shana’s tumors were either completely gone or no longer active.  This is in contrast to the US doctors’ prediction that in 3 months, Shana would be dead because “there was nothing that could be done.”

We have gone back to Oasis 3 more times, and we are returning there again this week (December 4).  Her improvement has been remarkable! Shana no longer has active cancer in any “life-threatening soft tissues,” but it is stubbornly persisting in her bones.  So, this week the doctors will be tweaking her treatment and giving her a new, more aggressive version of the cancer vaccine.  We – and they – remain very hopeful for a 100% recovery over time.  But it will require regular scans and visits to Oasis until that happens.

Shana lost most of her hair early on due to the cancer tumors in her skill and scalp – but her hair is growing back now with a vengeance.  The long blonde locks are gone, and it’s gray hair that’s growing back – but it’s all good.  One exciting result of this “down time” is that Shana has rekindled her love of painting during the last 18 months, and she now sells paintings and cards to help support the cancer treatments on her website.

The downside of receiving treatment at Oasis of Hope is that none of it is covered by our insurance.  And so far, between the surgery, hospital visits and home prescriptions, it’s cost us between $150,000 and $200,000.  That’s why we are so blessed and grateful for Helping Hands and the many generous friends who have supported us.  That support has been quite literally life-saving.  It’s a miracle in many ways.  Thank you!

Again, we are blessed and grateful for all you’ve done to walk this road with us.