LYNN — A group of coworkers at Lynn Oral Surgery has launched a fundraiser to support Administrative Assistant Keriann Moriarty, who was recently diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer.
When a routine mammogram in late January revealed new masses, Moriarty said she quickly learned the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and would require aggressive treatment.
“I had an annual mammogram on Jan. 27 that showed new masses,” Moriarty said. “So far, it’s just been appointment after appointment with all the pre-workups. I have kids at home, and it’s just going to be a nightmare, especially if I have to take a leave for treatment. If able, I would like to continue working as long as possible even while doing chemo.”
Moriarty said she first noticed something unusual in her breast late last fall but was reassured by a previously normal mammogram. In hindsight, she wishes she had pursued further testing as soon as possible.
“I felt something in October or November, but I had had a mammogram the previous January, so it gave me a false sense of security,” she said. “Now I wish I’d gone in earlier.”
Spearheading the benefit is coworker and friend of 15 years, Deborah Francavilla, who said the team is rallying to ease the financial strain on Moriarty’s family.
“We just wanted to do something for Keriann because she has a family, and we didn’t want her to have to worry about extra money,” Francavilla said. “Any money we can raise is just to give her peace of mind while she’s taking time off of work.”
The raffle fundraiser includes a weekend trip for six to a renovated historic schoolhouse in Rye, New Hampshire, within walking distance from Wallis Sands Beach. Each $30 donation secures one entry into the raffle, featuring bikes for beach trips and gift cards to local restaurants and shops.
Donations can be made through Venmo to @deborah-francavilla. Organizers ask donors to include their phone number and name to ensure entry into the raffle. For more information, email [email protected].
