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Urgent Prayer Request
for Kirsten

27 years old. Fighting one of the rarest cancers in medicine. She has poured herself into everyone she has ever loved. Today, we pour into her.

"But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord."
Jeremiah 30:17
StrongLovedFighting
♥ Donate Now Add Your Prayer Share Her Story
Kirsten Wells

Kirsten Wells • 27 • Chicago, IL

Live Giving Feed
$0

18% of $98,000 treatment goal

Given directly to Kirsten's fight

🧡 125 donors and counting
Visit GoFundMe for live totals →

Every Month Matters

This road does not end after one treatment. We are in this for however long it takes. A recurring monthly gift — even $10 or $25 a month — means we wake up each month knowing consistent support is coming. Every recurring donor becomes a permanent, named part of our family's fight. We will never forget what you did for our daughter.

♥ Give Monthly Give Once

You can modify or cancel a recurring gift at any time through GoFundMe.

What Your Gift Covers

$25

Helps keep her recovery bag stocked with what her body needs

$75

Helps bring Kirsten one leg closer to Houston for treatment

$100

Helps offset the cost of nutritional support during a week of treatment

$250

Helps keep the family afloat during a week away from home

$500

Moves us closer to protecting her dream of becoming a mother one day

$1,000

Becomes a meaningful part of one treatment session at MD Anderson

⏱ Time-Sensitive Need

Fertility preservation must happen before chemotherapy begins. Every day counts. The aggressive treatments Kirsten will undergo may greatly reduce her chances of having children in the future. Doctors have strongly encouraged her to see a fertility specialist immediately. This window is closing. If you can give toward fertility preservation today — please do.

Help Preserve Kirsten's Future

Cancer picked the wrong child of God. Kirsten Wells is surrounded by faith, family, and an entire community that refuses to let her fight alone. Your gift — no matter the size — joins that circle.

♥ Donate on GoFundMe

Every Dollar Moves Us Closer

$10,000

Fertility preservation before treatment begins

$25,000

First full treatment cycle at MD Anderson

$50,000

Six months of treatment and living expenses

$75,000

Transportation and housing for full treatment phase

$98,000

Current GoFundMe goal — full extended treatment and recovery

Cancer Picked the Wrong Girl — Together, We Win.
We Show Up. We Speak Up. We Pray. We Fight. We Win.
Faith Over Fear.
Still Smiling. Still Fighting. Hope Over Everything.
Tougher Than Cancer — Team Kirsten.
In This Family We Don't Back Down. We Fight Together. We Win.

“Our daughter is the heart of everything we do.”

Our Why

Kirsten's Story: Our Why

Kirsten is our daughter, our sister, and one of the most incredible people we know.

At 27 years old, she has a way of bringing light into every room she enters. She is the person who shows up when someone needs encouragement, offers support without being asked, and gives her whole heart to the people she loves. Her kindness, resilience, and quiet strength have touched so many lives.

Like many young women her age, Kirsten has dreams for the future. She dreams of building a life she loves, creating lasting memories with family and friends, and one day becoming a mother. Those dreams are still very much alive, even as she faces the biggest challenge of her life.

When Kirsten was diagnosed with cancer, our family's world changed in an instant. Since then, we have watched her face every appointment, procedure, and treatment with remarkable courage and determination. While there have been difficult days, there have also been moments of hope, strength, and gratitude that continue to carry us forward.

We created this page to share Kirsten's journey, keep loved ones informed, and provide a place for those who have asked how they can help. The reality is that cancer impacts every part of life. Along with the emotional challenges come medical expenses, travel, temporary housing, fertility preservation, medications, and time away from the life she was building.

Asking for help is not easy, but we have been reminded that life's hardest seasons are not meant to be faced alone. Every prayer, message, share, donation, and act of kindness helps lighten the burden and reminds us that Kirsten is surrounded by people who care deeply about her.

Thank you for taking the time to be here. Thank you for standing with Kirsten and our family as we continue to walk this journey together with faith, hope, and determination.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

Timeline of Kirsten's Journey

Onset of Symptoms

Kirsten begins experiencing symptoms that lead to seeking medical evaluation.

Diagnosis Received

Our beloved Kirsten Wells is diagnosed with Stage 4 Renal Medullary Carcinoma and Retroperitoneal Lymphadenopathy.

Illness Confirmed Spread

This type of kidney illness has spread to the lymph nodes behind the abdominal organs.

Specialized Care Required

Local providers in Illinois advise that specialized expertise is required and is not available locally for this specific condition.

MD Anderson Referral — Houston TX

Kirsten is referred to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston TX — one of the only institutions in the world with deep expertise in treating this rare condition.

Treatment Begins Immediately

Kirsten will receive a combination of treatments including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Her medical team fights urgently for her healing and recovery.

Fertility Specialist Consultation

Preserving hope for her future. Doctors have strongly encouraged Kirsten to see a fertility specialist immediately to explore preserving her ability to have children before treatment begins.

First Chemotherapy Treatment — June 5th

Began the first chemotherapy treatment on June 5th, marking an important milestone in the journey toward recovery and healing.

Egg Retrieval — Northwestern Medicine

Completed a successful egg retrieval procedure at Northwestern Medicine, where six eggs were successfully retrieved, providing a positive step forward in the fertility preservation process.

Chemo Port Placement — June 12, 2026

Kirsten underwent a procedure to have a chemotherapy port implanted in preparation for ongoing treatment.

Additional Testing Ordered — Mid-June 2026

Following her procedure, Kirsten's nephrologist ordered updated laboratory tests to monitor her health and guide her treatment plan.

Community Benefit Concert and Awareness Event — June 14, 2026

Family, friends, and supporters gathered at Samaria Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas, for a special benefit concert honoring Kirsten and raising awareness for Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC). The event was organized by Pastor Darrell Blair, Glenn Nixon, and Rev. McKinley Jackson, and featured performances by Grammy Award-winning artists Kirk Franklin, David and Tamela Mann, Darrell Blair, The Lawson Singers, the DFW Legacy Mass Choir, and many other musicians and choirs. A special musical tribute was also presented by Kirsten's father, Kermit Wells, accompanied by saxophonist Rachella Parks-Washington and pianist Nathan Young. ▶ Watch a moment from the concert

Financial Assistance Application Submitted — June 18, 2026

Kirsten applied for the Allyson Whitney Foundation grant program to help offset expenses associated with her cancer treatment journey.

Amazon Wishlist Created — June 2026

To help meet practical day-to-day needs during treatment, Kirsten's family created an Amazon Wishlist for supporters who wanted to provide direct assistance. 🛒 Shop Kirsten's Amazon Wishlist

Next Chemotherapy Infusion Scheduled — June 26, 2026

Kirsten's oncology team scheduled her next chemotherapy infusion as she continued treatment for Renal Medullary Carcinoma.

We are believing for healing. We are believing for miracles. We are believing for a future where our daughter gets to live the life she was made for — full of joy, full of purpose, and full of love. Our faith is not shaken. It is what gets us through every single day.

A moment from Kirsten's journey.

From Our Family to Yours

Dynna Kelly-Rodgers

Dynna
Mother

Calvin Rodgers

Calvin
Father

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being here.

No family is ever fully prepared to hear the words, “you have cancer.” In a moment, life changes. Plans are interrupted, priorities shift, and every day begins to look a little different than the one before. While this journey has brought challenges we never expected, it has also reminded us of the incredible strength found in family, friendship, faith, and community.

Kirsten is surrounded by a family who loves her deeply. Her mom, Dynna, her dads, Calvin and Kermit, and her siblings, Darrell, Kamylle, CJ, and Morgan, have all rallied around her with unwavering love and support. Together, we celebrate every victory, face every obstacle, and continue believing in brighter days ahead.

Throughout this experience, we have been overwhelmed by the kindness shown to our family. The prayers, messages, phone calls, meals, donations, and words of encouragement have carried us through some of the most difficult moments. Many of you may never fully know the impact your support has had, but please know it has mattered more than we can express.

This website was created to keep family and friends informed, share updates along the way, and provide a place for those who wish to support Kirsten during her treatment journey. Whether you are here to follow her progress, offer a prayer, send encouragement, or contribute financially, we are grateful for every gesture of support.

Thank you for walking alongside us. Your compassion, generosity, and love remind us every day that we are not facing this journey alone.

With gratitude, The Family of Kirsten Wells

A Special Thank You to EyeLation

I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to my EyeLation family.

Throughout this journey, I have been incredibly blessed by the support, understanding, encouragement, and kindness I have received from my coworkers and leadership team. Facing cancer comes with many uncertainties, and knowing I have the support of such a caring workplace has brought me comfort during some very difficult days.

Your flexibility, patience, prayers, and constant encouragement have helped me focus on what matters most—my health and healing. Whether through a simple check-in, a thoughtful message, or words of encouragement when I needed them most, your support has made a meaningful difference in my life.

I am truly grateful to be part of a company that values people as much as it values its work. Thank you for standing beside me and supporting both me and my family during this season.

Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten.

With heartfelt gratitude, Kirsten Wells

Understanding the Journey

Her Diagnosis: Renal Medullary Carcinoma and Stage 4 RCC

Our beloved Kirsten Wells has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Renal Medullary Carcinoma and Retroperitoneal Lymphadenopathy. This type of kidney illness has spread to the lymph nodes behind the abdominal organs.

What Is Stage 4 Renal Medullary Carcinoma?

The illness has spread beyond the kidney. Renal Medullary Carcinoma is the most common type of kidney illness. At Stage 4 it has reached distant lymph nodes or organs. Kirsten's specific form — Retroperitoneal Lymphadenopathy — means it has spread to the lymph nodes behind the abdominal cavity. This requires aggressive and specialized treatment.

What Is Retroperitoneal Lymphadenopathy?

Lymphadenopathy means enlarged lymph nodes. Retroperitoneal refers to the space behind the abdominal cavity. When illness spreads to this region it presents unique treatment challenges and requires highly specialized care. This is why local providers in Illinois were unable to offer Kirsten a path forward, and why MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston TX became her destination.

Renal Medullary Carcinoma: A Rare Kidney Cancer Affecting Young Adults

Kirsten's diagnosis also identified Renal Medullary Carcinoma — an extremely rare and aggressive subtype of kidney illness. RMC accounts for less than 0.5 percent of all kidney cases and strikes primarily in the 20s. Most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Most local physicians never encounter a single RMC case during their entire careers. This is why specialized treatment at MD Anderson is not a preference. It is a medical necessity. Kirsten is in the right fight, at the right place, with the right team.

RMC and Sickle Cell Trait: A Critical Connection

Renal Medullary Carcinoma occurs in the vast majority of cases in people with sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease. Most people who carry the sickle cell trait are completely unaware of this risk. Kirsten has the sickle cell trait.

If you or someone you love carries sickle cell trait, this information is important for your health awareness and screening decisions. Sharing Kirsten's story may save a life by raising awareness of this connection.

Kirsten's Treatment Plan at MD Anderson

Kirsten will receive a combination of treatments including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation. She will begin these treatments immediately as her medical team fights urgently for her healing and recovery.

MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston TX is where the world's foremost experts in rare kidney cancer will guide every step of Kirsten's treatment. Our family is grateful that she has access to this level of care, and we are believing for healing, miracles, and a future filled with more life and more joy.

Why MD Anderson for Rare Kidney Cancer Treatment

MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston TX is one of the world's leading institutions for rare and aggressive kidney cancer treatment. Local providers in Illinois — like most providers across the country — have very limited experience treating Renal Medullary Carcinoma.

For Kirsten, traveling to Houston is not a preference. It is a medical necessity. The financial burden of this travel — flights, lodging, living expenses away from home — is why this campaign exists. Your support sends Kirsten where she needs to be.

Preserving Hope for Her Future

The aggressive treatments Kirsten will undergo may greatly reduce her chances of having children in the future. Because she has no children yet, doctors have strongly encouraged her to see a fertility specialist immediately to explore freezing her eggs before treatment begins. This is an additional emotional and financial burden during an already heartbreaking time.

Fertility preservation must happen before chemotherapy begins. Every dollar given today helps make sure Kirsten has the chance to become a mother one day.

Medical Glossary: Plain Language

Renal Cell Carcinoma: A type of kidney illness that begins in the lining of the kidney tubules.

Retroperitoneal Lymphadenopathy: Enlargement of lymph nodes in the space behind the abdominal cavity.

Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC): An extremely rare and aggressive subtype of kidney illness associated with sickle cell trait, accounting for less than 0.5 percent of all kidney cancers.

Sickle Cell Trait: Carrying one copy of the sickle cell gene — different from sickle cell disease, which requires two copies.

Immunotherapy: Treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight illness.

Chemotherapy: Medication that targets and destroys rapidly dividing cells.

Radiation: Targeted energy used to destroy illness cells.

Metastatic: Illness that has spread from its original location to other parts of the body.

Stage 4: The most advanced stage, indicating spread to distant organs or lymph nodes.

Fertility Preservation: Medical procedures including egg freezing that protect reproductive options before treatment begins.

For Other Families Facing This Diagnosis

If you or someone you love has received a diagnosis of Renal Medullary Carcinoma or a rare kidney illness, you are not alone. The organizations in our Resource Hub are here to help.

The Chris CJ Johnson Foundation and AnCan RMC Virtual Support Group both exist specifically for families navigating RMC. Connecting with others who have walked this road is one of the most powerful steps a family can take. You do not have to figure this out alone.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
Transparency

Every Dollar Has a Destination

Stage 4 Renal Medullary Carcinoma is among the most expensive cancers to treat. The figures below reflect published research and general estimates for this type of treatment journey — not line-item invoices. Every patient’s actual costs vary by insurance, treatment protocol, and circumstance. We share them so you understand the weight of what we are carrying, not as guarantees of specific coverage.

Immunotherapy, Chemotherapy & Radiation
Immunotherapy for advanced kidney cancer averages $10,000–$12,500 per month. Most patients require 12+ months of continuous treatment. Source: JNCI Cancer Spectrum, 2024.
$120K–$300K/yr
Fertility Preservation — Egg Freezing Before Treatment
Fertility preservation must be completed before chemotherapy begins. Egg retrieval and medication typically costs $15,000–$20,000 and this window closes permanently once treatment starts. Source: ASRM / Livestrong Fertility.
$15K–$20K
Travel — Chicago to Houston MD Anderson
Round-trip flights between Chicago O'Hare and Houston average $280–$400. Patients at specialized cancer centers average 20+ trips during active treatment — not counting emergency travel. Source: American Cancer Society patient travel data.
$6K–$12K
Extended Housing Near MD Anderson
Budget extended-stay housing near the Texas Medical Center runs $1,500–$3,000/month. Hope Lodge Houston offers free lodging but operates first-come, first-served with referral required — placement is not guaranteed. Source: ACS Hope Lodge Houston.
$1.5K–$3K/mo
Prescription Medications
Cancer patients pay an average of $5,000–$12,000 per year in out-of-pocket prescription costs even with insurance coverage. Source: Kaiser Family Foundation Cancer Cost Survey.
$5K–$12K/yr
Specialist Appointments, Imaging & Testing
A single appointment at a specialized cancer center like MD Anderson averages $800–$2,500 before insurance adjustment. Diagnostic imaging and labs needed throughout treatment can add $15,000–$30,000 annually.
$15K–$30K/yr
Income Loss & Everyday Living Expenses
75% of cancer patients report significant income loss during active treatment. For a patient in their 20s, the financial gap between income lost and expenses incurred is severe. Source: American Cancer Society Cancer Facts & Figures.
Variable
Nutritional Support & Recovery
Medically tailored nutrition, supplements, and dietary support during immunotherapy and chemotherapy are rarely covered by insurance. RMC patients often require high-nutrient, anti-inflammatory protocols throughout treatment.
$400–$800/mo

Even with insurance, most of these costs are only partially covered. 100% of direct gifts via Cash App, Zelle, or Venmo reach Kirsten immediately with zero platform fees.

♥ Give Directly
Support Kirsten

How to Give

Every method below goes directly to Kirsten and her family. Choose what works for you — a one-time gift, a monthly commitment, or simply sharing her story with someone who might give. It all matters.

Give Directly to Kirsten

Primary — GoFundMe Campaign

Donate on GoFundMe

♥ Donate on GoFundMe

Cash App

$KirstenWells

Zelle

KirstenWells98@gmail.com — Name: Kirsten Wells

Venmo

@Kirsten-Wells-17

Apple Pay

Via personal contact

Reach out to a family member directly to give via Apple Pay.

Amazon Wishlist

Send practical items directly

Help meet day-to-day needs during treatment by purchasing items from Kirsten's wishlist.

🛒 Shop Amazon Wishlist

Your direct gift goes straight to Kirsten and helps immediately.

Just Donated? Help Us Reach More People.

The most powerful thing you can do after giving is share. Every share reaches people who haven't heard Kirsten's story yet. Use the posts below — or write your own.

Ready-to-Share Social Posts

Start Your Own Fundraiser for Kirsten

You can multiply your impact by starting your own mini fundraiser for Kirsten. Ask your workplace, church, friend group, or community to give. Every dollar raised in Kirsten's name goes directly to her fight. Here is how:

1

Go to Kirsten's GoFundMe

Visit Kirsten's campaign and see her story directly.

Visit GoFundMe
2

Click Share

Choose Start a Fundraiser for Someone or share directly to your social channels with a personal message about why you are giving.

3

Tag Us In Your Post

Use #TeamKirsten and tag @dynnarodgers on Instagram or Dynna Kelly-Rodgers on Facebook. We will thank you personally.

Download & Share Flyers

Kirsten Wells Prayer and Awareness Flyer TeamKirsten

Prayer and Awareness Flyer

⬇ Download and Share
Kirsten Wells Campaign Flyer Fight For Kirsten

Campaign Flyer

⬇ Download and Share

Share These Graphics

Right-click any graphic to save, then post to your Instagram story, Facebook, or X. Tag @dynnarodgers so the family can reshare.

Right-click any graphic to save • Tag @dynnarodgers when you post

Wear Your Support

Four designs. Each one built to start a conversation. Each one a declaration that goes beyond this campaign and lives anywhere you wear it.

Design A — The Declaration

SHOW

UP.

For everyone who ever needed someone to.

#TEAMKIRSTEN

SHOW UP.

Two words that carry everything. Wearable anywhere, every day, by anyone who has ever been there when it counted — or needed someone to be.

Inquire to Order

Design B — The Statement

MADE TO

SURVIVE.

#KIRSTENSTRONG

MADE TO SURVIVE.

Bold. Minimal. Universal. This shirt belongs to anyone who has ever walked through something hard and come out still standing. The story behind it is Kirsten’s.

Inquire to Order

Design E — The Posture

FAITH
DOESN’T
FLINCH.

#TEAMKIRSTEN

FAITH DOESN’T FLINCH.

Quiet. Unmoved. Four words that say everything about how this family walks this road. No explanation needed — just the declaration.

Inquire to Order

Design C — The Awareness

1 IN

14

SICKLE CELL TRAIT
RENAL MEDULLARY CARCINOMA
KNOW YOUR RISK
#KIRSTENSTRONG

1 IN 14.

A number that carries a secret. Those who know, stop. Those who don’t, ask — and that question is the entire point. Wear the number. Tell the story.

Inquire to Order

Reach the family on Facebook or Instagram to inquire. Tag your photos #TeamKirsten — we reshare every one.

Three Things You Can Do Right Now

01

Give

Every dollar goes directly to Kirsten. No overhead. No platform cut for direct giving. Choose the amount that feels right. All of it matters more than you know.

Give Now
02

Share

One share reaches people we will never reach on our own. Use the ready-made posts in this section or write your own. A single share has turned into thousands of dollars before.

03

Pray

Leave a message on the Wall of Love. Kirsten reads every single one. On her hardest days, your words become her strength. Nothing about that is small.

Write to Kirsten

Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
Stay Connected

Walk This Journey With Us

Get Updates Directly

Subscribe to receive personal updates from the family, prayer requests, milestone announcements, and ways to help as Kirsten's journey continues. We will honor your inbox with only what matters most.

From the Journal

May 2025

The Fight of Her Life — Our Family's Story

We did not expect to be on this road. Nobody does. But we are here, and we are not walking it alone because of you. Every message, every prayer, every dollar has reminded Kirsten — and all of us — that she is surrounded by more love than she can fully take in right now.

Kirsten is showing up every day with the same heart she has always had — full of faith, full of grace, and full of gratitude. She sees your messages. She feels your prayers. She knows she is not fighting alone.

We will keep this journal updated as her journey continues. Thank you for staying. Thank you for caring. Thank you for being part of her fight.

She is stronger than she knows. Her story isn't over. 🧡 — The Rodgers Family.

Community Love

Every Word You Write, She Holds Close

Leave a prayer, a memory, or whatever is on your heart. On the days when the fight feels heaviest, Kirsten comes here. Write to her like she is reading right now — because she is.

Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.
Psalm 30:2

Leave a Message for Kirsten

Messages of Love

Nēsh Doe-Benion

“God is able and he is faithful! I'm celebrating with you for the huge victory of being released!! I'm also so happy to see so many items on her wishlist like soursop and oil of oregano. Cancer picked the wrong child of God!! #KirstenStrong Will be contributing soon!”

Oscar Williams Jr.

“We are praying and supporting.”

Lorie Chew

“May God continue to bless you and your family.”

Mark Wash

“Victory over cancer in Jesus name.”

Practical Help

Resources for Families Navigating This Road

When a diagnosis like this arrives most families don't know where to look. We are building this hub and sharing every resource we find — organized so families can take action right away. If you know of a program, organization, or resource that could help please add it in the Community Knowledge section below. This page grows stronger the more we share with each other.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
Select your state above to see local travel, lodging, and food resources near you.

Travel Assistance — Illinois

Corporate Angel Network (CAN)

Free flights on corporate aircraft to recognized treatment centers. Open to all patients regardless of financial need. Travel as often as needed.

Phone: 866-328-1313

corpangelnetwork.org

Angel Flight Central

Free charitable flights for medical travel. Serves the Midwest including Illinois.

angelflightcentral.org

Mercy Medical Angels

Ground and air transportation including gas cards, bus and train tickets, and flights via volunteer pilots and commercial airline partners.

mercymedical.org

Air Charity Network

Free air transportation to specialized treatment centers for qualifying patients.

aircharitynetwork.org

American Cancer Society Road to Recovery

Volunteer drivers and transportation coordination for treatment appointments.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org

Travel Assistance — Texas

Corporate Angel Network (CAN)

Free flights on corporate aircraft to recognized treatment centers. Open to all patients regardless of financial need. Travel as often as needed.

Phone: 866-328-1313

corpangelnetwork.org

Angel Flight Central

Free charitable flights for medical travel. Serves the South Central region including Texas.

angelflightcentral.org

Mercy Medical Angels

Ground and air transportation including gas cards, bus and train tickets, and flights via volunteer pilots and commercial airline partners.

mercymedical.org

Air Charity Network

Free air transportation to specialized treatment centers including MD Anderson.

aircharitynetwork.org

American Cancer Society Road to Recovery

Volunteer drivers and transportation coordination for treatment appointments.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org

Travel Assistance — Your State

Local resources for your state — use the national directories below to find programs near you.

Corporate Angel Network

Free flights to recognized treatment centers. Available nationwide regardless of financial need.

Phone: 866-328-1313

corpangelnetwork.org

American Cancer Society

Road to Recovery volunteer driver program and transportation assistance.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org

NeedyMeds Local Program Finder

Search transportation assistance and local aid programs by ZIP code.

needymeds.org
Select your state above to see local travel, lodging, and food resources near you.

Lodging Assistance — Illinois

Extended Stay America via ACS Partnership

Reduced rate extended stays in 700+ locations including Chicago area. For patients in active treatment.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org

American Cancer Society Resource Locator

Find lodging assistance in the Chicago area through the ACS national network.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org

Lodging Near MD Anderson — Houston, Texas

ACS Hope Lodge Houston — FREE

Free lodging for patients in active treatment living 40+ miles from their treatment center. 64 private suites. Referral required from a medical professional.

6801 Ardmore St, Houston TX 77054 • Phone: 713-848-8905

cancer.org — Hope Lodge Houston

Ronald McDonald House Houston

Extended stay affordable housing near the Texas Medical Center for patients and families.

rmhhouston.org

Rotary House International

On-campus hotel at MD Anderson for patients and families at discounted rates. Conveniently connected to the treatment building.

mdanderson.org — Where to Stay

Extended Stay America ACS Partnership

Reduced rate stays in 700+ locations nationwide for patients in active treatment.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org

Lodging Assistance — Your State

Local resources for your state — use the national directories below to find programs near you.

ACS Hope Lodge Locator

Free lodging for cancer patients at 30+ locations nationwide. Referral from medical team required.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org — Hope Lodge

Ronald McDonald House Charities

Low-cost housing near major treatment centers for patients and families.

rmhc.org

Joe's House

Searchable lodging database near hospitals and cancer centers nationwide.

joeshouse.org
Select your state above to see local travel, lodging, and food resources near you.

Food & Nutrition Assistance — Illinois

Lasagna Love

Free homemade meal delivery coordinating in the Chicago area. Neighbor makes dinner for neighbor.

lasagnalove.org

Family Reach Food Assistance

Direct assistance covering food and everyday expenses for patients and families.

familyreach.org/gethelp

Meals on Wheels

Free or low-cost meal delivery for qualifying patients. Locate your local Illinois provider.

mealsonwheelsamerica.org

Cancer Support Community Nutrition Programs

Resources helping patients access nutritious food during and after treatment.

cancersupportcommunity.org

Food & Nutrition Assistance — Houston, Texas

Houston Food Bank Medically Tailored Meals

Dietitian-designed meals delivered to individuals with serious illness in the Houston area.

houstonfoodbank.org

Lasagna Love

Free homemade meal delivery in the Houston area.

lasagnalove.org

Family Reach Food Assistance

Direct assistance covering food and everyday expenses for patients and families.

familyreach.org/gethelp

Cancer Support Community Nutrition Programs

cancersupportcommunity.org

Meals on Wheels

mealsonwheelsamerica.org

Food & Nutrition Assistance — Your State

Local resources for your state — use the national directories below.

Feeding America

Searchable national food bank finder by state and ZIP code.

feedingamerica.org

Family Reach Food Assistance

familyreach.org/gethelp

NeedyMeds Local Program Finder

needymeds.org

National Resources — Available in All 50 States

Patient Advocate Foundation

Case managers plus financial aid grants covering transportation, housing, food, and treatment costs.

Phone: 844-462-8072

patientadvocate.org

CancerCare

Financial assistance for transportation, copays, home care, and childcare.

Phone: 800-813-4673

cancercare.org

Family Reach

Covers housing, utilities, food, and transportation. 24-hour resource center.

familyreach.org/gethelp

HealthWell Foundation

Prescription costs, insurance premiums, deductibles, and travel assistance.

Phone: 800-675-8416

healthwellfoundation.org

PAN Foundation

Direct grants for underinsured patients to afford medications and treatment.

Phone: 866-316-7263

panfoundation.org

SAMFund via Expect Miracles Foundation

Financial grants for young adults ages 21–39 with a serious diagnosis covering living expenses, medical bills, rent, and utilities.

expectmiraclesfoundation.org/samfund

Good Days

Copay and insurance premium assistance for qualifying patients.

Phone: 877-968-7233

mygooddays.org

NeedyMeds

Prescription assistance and drug discount programs.

needymeds.org

Join the Flock

Mortgage payment grants for families impacted by serious health diagnoses.

jointheflock.org

Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC)

Searchable national database of financial assistance programs by cancer type and location.

cancerfac.org

MD Anderson Financial Assistance Program

Financial assistance and uncompensated care programs available through MD Anderson patient services. Request a financial counselor on the first visit.

mdanderson.org — Financial Assistance

American Cancer Society

Travel, lodging, Hope Lodge, and direct patient assistance programs nationwide.

Phone: 800-227-2345

cancer.org

V Foundation for Cancer Research

Funds rare kidney cancer research and patient-centered programs.

v.org

CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation

Phone: 866-552-6729

cancercare.org

Pharmaceutical Patient Assistance Programs

Most major drug manufacturers — including Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer, Merck, AstraZeneca, and Genentech — offer free or reduced cost medications for qualifying patients. Ask MD Anderson social work team for a list specific to Kirsten's treatment protocol.

RMC Research Foundation

Comprehensive resources for Renal Medullary Carcinoma patients and families.

thermcresearchfoundation.org

Chris CJ Johnson Foundation

Houston-based peer support and advocacy for RMC families, founded by a mother whose son was lost to RMC.

chrisjohnsonfoundation.org

AnCan RMC Virtual Support Group

Free peer-moderated video group meeting second Tuesdays at 8pm Eastern time. Open to all RMC patients and families.

ancan.org/renal-medullary-carcinoma

Kidney Cancer Association

Funds research and connects patients to clinical trials and community support.

kidneycancer.org

NORD — National Organization for Rare Disorders

Phone: 800-999-6673

rarediseases.org

Family Reach

Emergency financial relief for Stage 4 families.

familyreach.org

Cancer Support Community

Free support groups and helpline for patients and families.

Phone: 888-793-9355

cancersupportcommunity.org

Stupid Cancer

Community and programs for young adults with any cancer diagnosis.

stupidcancer.org

Livestrong Fertility

Connecting patients facing serious diagnoses with free or discounted fertility preservation services before treatment begins. Must be referred before treatment starts.

livestrongfertility.org

Alliance for Fertility Preservation

Oncofertility resources and patient support for those facing treatment that may affect fertility.

allianceforfertilitypreservation.org

MD Anderson Oncofertility Program

Ask medical team for referral on the first visit. Time is critical — this must be initiated before treatment begins.

mdanderson.org

SCDAA — Sickle Cell Disease Association of America

National advocacy, education, and community for those with sickle cell disease and trait. 50+ member organizations in 31 states.

sicklecelldisease.org

ASCAA — American Sickle Cell Anemia Association

Counseling, diagnostic testing, and community support for families navigating sickle cell conditions.

ascaa.org

Cancer Legal Resource Center (CLRC)

Free legal information on insurance denials, FMLA, employment rights, and medical leave.

disabilityrightslegalcenter.org

National Cancer Legal Services Network

40+ free legal programs nationwide for cancer patients navigating legal and insurance challenges.

nclsn.org

Patient Advocate Foundation Case Management

Free case managers for insurance denials and treatment access challenges.

Phone: 800-532-5274

patientadvocate.org

LawHelp

Free local legal aid searchable by state for patients navigating insurance and disability issues.

lawhelp.org

CancerCare

Free professional counseling for patients and caregivers from licensed oncology social workers.

cancercare.org

Cancer Support Community

Free caregiver support groups and helpline. You don't have to carry this alone.

Phone: 888-793-9355

cancersupportcommunity.org

Family Caregiver Alliance

National resource center for family caregivers with guides, programs, and support networks.

caregiver.org

Patient Navigator at MD Anderson

Patient navigators and social workers connect patients and families with programs and resources available through MD Anderson patient services upon arrival.

mdanderson.org

Hope Lodge Houston Referral

Referral-based lodging operating first come, first served. Request referral from medical team as early as possible.

Phone: 713-848-8905

cancer.org — Hope Lodge Houston

Corporate Angel Network Free Flights

Free corporate flights available to all patients traveling to recognized treatment centers, not based on financial need. Register before purchasing airline tickets.

Phone: 866-328-1313

corpangelnetwork.org

MD Anderson Financial Counselor

Financial assistance and uncompensated care programs available through MD Anderson patient services. Request on the first visit.

mdanderson.org — Financial Assistance

Fertility Preservation Must Begin Before Treatment Starts

Ask the oncology team for an oncofertility referral on the very first visit. Time is critical — this window closes once chemotherapy begins.

livestrongfertility.org

Pharmaceutical Patient Assistance Programs

Most major drug manufacturers provide medications free or at significantly reduced cost for qualifying patients. Ask MD Anderson social work team for a list specific to the prescribed treatment protocol.

FMLA Federal Job Protection

Federal job protection for employees taking leave to care for a family member with a serious health condition.

dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla

Medicaid Emergency Enrollment

A Stage 4 diagnosis may qualify for emergency Medicaid enrollment outside of standard enrollment windows. Contact your state Medicaid office for eligibility.

Insurance Denial Appeals

Free support for appealing insurance denials available through Cancer Legal Resource Center and Patient Advocate Foundation.

disabilityrightslegalcenter.org • patientadvocate.org

RMC Community Networks

Peer connection and support for RMC patients and families who have walked this same road.

chrisjohnsonfoundation.org • ancan.org/renal-medullary-carcinoma
Collective Wisdom

You Know Something That Could Help.

This hub grows stronger the more people contribute to it. If you work in healthcare, insurance, legal aid, nonprofits, social work, or faith communities — or if you have navigated a diagnosis like this — your knowledge could help a family that does not know where to turn. This is how we build something bigger than one family's fight.

Submit a Resource or Tip

Featured Organizations

The Chris CJ Johnson Foundation

Founded by a mother whose son was lost to RMC — dedicated to awareness and advocacy for families navigating Renal Medullary Carcinoma.

What They Cover: Peer support, RMC education, and community connection

Visit Foundation

Livestrong Fertility

Connecting patients facing serious diagnoses with free or discounted fertility preservation services before treatment begins.

What They Cover: Egg freezing consultations and fertility preservation support

Visit Livestrong Fertility

Corporate Angel Network

Arranging free flights on corporate aircraft to recognized treatment centers for all cancer patients regardless of financial need.

What They Cover: Free air travel to MD Anderson and other major treatment centers

Visit Corporate Angel Network

Recent Prayers for Kirsten

Add Your Prayer →

Verified RMC Statistics

Sources: National Cancer Institute • NORD / Dr. Pavlos Msaouel, MD Anderson • SEER Database Analysis (Journal of Surgical Research, 2023) • European Urology Oncology, 2024

< 200

Confirmed RMC cases per year in the US. Likely undercounted due to misdiagnosis. The entire SEER cancer database from 1996–2018 captured only 100 patients. Source: NCI / SEER 2023.

95%+

Of RMC cases occur in people carrying sickle cell trait or disease — yet most carriers have no awareness this risk exists. 1 in 14 Black Americans carries the sickle cell trait. Source: NORD / MD Anderson.

28 yrs

Median age at diagnosis. Half of all patients are 28 or younger. Some are as young as 9. Kirsten was 27 when her world changed. This disease targets the young. Source: SEER 2023 analysis.

> 90%

Of patients are diagnosed at Stage 3 or Stage 4 — the most advanced stages — because early-stage RMC rarely produces symptoms. Kirsten was diagnosed at Stage 4. Source: NORD • SEER 2023.

13 mo

Median overall survival from diagnosis. Fewer than 5% of patients survive beyond three years. Newer immunotherapy combinations are extending life — Kirsten is fighting with the best team in the world. Source: NCI • NORD.

83%

Of SEER-database RMC patients are Black Americans. This is a disease that disproportionately strikes young Black adults — and remains critically underdiagnosed and underfunded. Source: SEER 2023.

Media

Kirsten's Story Deserves to Be Heard Beyond Our Circle

Renal Medullary Carcinoma affects fewer than 200 Americans per year. Kirsten Wells is 27. She is one of them.

Her story sits at the intersection of four critical conversations in American healthcare right now: rare disease underdiagnosis, racial health disparities in oncology, the silent risk carried by 1 in 14 Black Americans, and the financial brutality of traveling across the country for care that does not exist at home.

83% of RMC patients are Black Americans. Most were never warned that their sickle cell trait carried this risk. Kirsten was never warned. Most patients aren’t.

Story Angles

  • → Health Equity: Why is RMC striking Black Americans at 83% of cases — and almost no one knows?
  • → Rare Disease: A diagnosis most doctors have never seen. A family that had to leave their state for care.
  • → Sickle Cell Trait: The silent cancer risk that 1 in 14 Black Americans carries without knowing.
  • → Human Interest: 27 years old. Stage 4. Unshakeable faith. A community that refuses to leave her alone.
  • → The Real Cost: What does Stage 4 cancer actually cost a family that does not have $98,000?

If you cover health equity, rare disease, young adult cancer, faith communities, or human interest stories of extraordinary resilience — this story is for you. We have verified statistics, a family available for interview, and a community campaign with national reach.

Contact Dynna Kelly-Rodgers @dynnarodgers
#TeamKirsten #KirstenStrong #RMCAwareness #SickleCellTrait #RareKidneyCancer