Sometimes you meet people and you connect with them right away. That's how it was when I met Corrine. Since that initial meeting, we've discovered a kindred love of books and writing tied together with our mutual love of Jesus.
As I got to know Corrine better, I was able to learn more of her story - I wont retell it here (you can find a lot on her blog
here), but I will say it's
incredible and the best part is that she gives all glory to God. You also may remember me mentioning her as I started on my
5th NaNoWriMo journey - she was my writing buddy - and I'm happy to say we both passed the 50k mark on time!
Since then, she was also featured during my Spread the Christmas Joy posts in December (you can find that post
here) and we have continued to bounce story ideas off each other, inspire one another (generally in the form of hilarious pins from
Pinterest), and encourage one another in our walk with the Lord.
I say all this to give a bit of history. You see, Corrine recently underwent radiation therapy to treat an inoperable mass in her brain that was believed to be cancerous. That was a tough time for both her and her husband Matt, but I was so encouraged to see our church come around them. We signed up for meal trains, there were people cleaning their house, walking their dog, and even just coming to spend time with her. Corrine and I actually choose a book and I read out loud to her each week (talk about a hilarious time...).
Since then, she has finished this round of treatment (and we're hoping that's it) and is now getting back to life. The next shock came for them when they received their medical bills. Radiation is
not cheap and they have felt the weight of these bills.
My roommate decided it was not okay for us to just say, "Oh, that's too bad" and go on our way. Instead, she took action and set up a fundraiser specifically for our dear friend Corrine. I have been blessed to take part in spreading the word and already (with the fundraiser only being live for about 2 weeks) we're at the half way point!!!
I wanted to share here because I know a lot of people have been affected by cancer in their life - maybe a family member, friend, coworker, or maybe even themselves! Sometimes, we look in on the situation from the outside and wish we could help, but don't know what to do. Well, a very practical thing is to sharewhat we've been blessed with - whether that be verbal encouragement, prayer, or financial blessing.
Before anything else...
I ask that you would pray for Matt and Corrine!
They are determined to use this part of their story for the Lord. They give Him all the glory and know that no matter what happens, He will take care of them.
Secondly, we have set up a "YouCaring" account (which is a free fundraising platform) and I would ask that, if you feel led at all, you'd consider giving to the cause even if that's $10. Maybe you don't get coffee this week and give to the Matt and Corrine instead :)
Fundraiser page:
http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/giving-is-still-in-style/132552
Either way, be sure to check out the website and feel free to share the link on Facebook or other social media - any help to spread the word is great! We just want the burden of medical debt to be lifted from this young couple and we know a big God who can do just that through us!
I am blessed to know Matt and Corrine and I hope sharing just a little of their story can bless you too!
