Nelson's von der Nahmer family needs financial support as bills accumulate during cancer fight
By Bruce Fuhr
In the past Nelsonites have always been quick to respond to a family in need.
That call for help is once again being made, this time by the von der Nahmer family.
In April 2011, Nelson’s Ashleigh (nee Leatherman) von der Nahmer was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer just three months into her pregnancy with second son Levy.
Since then the family has logged more miles than Greyhound — traveling between Seattle, Vancouver, Victoria and Nelson — for treatment to ensure a safe and healthy delivery for their son.
The von der Nahmer’s accumulated more than 60,000 kilometers in seven months to meet with more than 60 doctors and medical professionals in Canada and the U.S.
“This year has been filled with immense physical and emotional pain, at times feeling unbearable, relentless and nearly impossible to overcome,” the von der Nahmer family said in a written release.
“With the help of our friends, neighbours, co-workers and families we can say that the perseverance has paid off — Ashleigh is considered cancer free.”
Currently the von der Nahmer’s live in Victoria to be close to hospitals for follow-up visits and so Ashleigh can complete radiation treatments.
Ashleigh still faces two more surgeries along with monthly tests and six years of therapy.
Due to the cancer the von der Nahmer’s family is faced with a huge debt due the cancer expenses, missed work, neglected bills and the cost of Levy’s birth.
There is also higher than usual costs until Ashleigh has fully recovered from her 12 months of treatment and ongoing therapy — physiotherapy, housekeeping and childcare.
“As difficult as this is for us, we are asking for support to see us through this difficult time,” the family said. “Any contribution (people) are able to give means more than we could ever express.”
Donations can be made to the Ashleigh von der Nahmer Fund at the CIBC, 2925 Tillicum Road, in Victoria.
CIBC Branch/Transit # 02930, Account # 02930/83-16236.
Pay Pal donations can be made to [email protected]
