Rachel's inspiring journey

Discover the incredible strength and unwavering spirit of Rachel, a true fighter who continues to inspire us all. Learn about her past challenges, her current battle, and her dreams for a brighter future.

A story of unwavering resilience

Rachel's journey is one of extraordinary courage. She battled rare terminal cancer twice, enduring multiple rounds of chemo, a drug-induced coma, brain surgery, total body radiation, and a stem cell transplant. Through it all, she maintained an incredible spirit and a remarkable ability to find joy. Even during her hospital stays, long before founding the organization UCAAN, she was known for helping other patients, showcasing her innate compassion.

The battle for her smile

In 2008, Rachel began losing her teeth, a challenge she eventually overcame by 2019 with implants and new teeth, thanks to a thoughtful gift from her uncle. However, in 2025, the unthinkable happened: multiple chronic infections led to major bone loss in her jaw. By June 2025, she had only 20% bone left on her bottom right jaw, a situation entirely beyond her control. Now, just over a year later, she is left with only 5% bone and faces the risk of losing her lower jawbone entirely. Her only viable option for restoration requires traveling out of the country, and this is where we desperately need your help to raise the necessary funds.

A future filled with hope and helping others

Even with the challenges she faces, Rachel's dedication to helping others remains steadfast. She uses her experience to encourage and educate people on preventing similar health issues. Once her smile is restored, Rachel dreams of expanding her outreach, participating in more speaking engagements, and furthering her passion for assisting others battling cancer through her organization, UCAAN. Your support will not only restore her smile but also empower her to continue her impactful work.

"Rachel's spirit is truly infectious. Her unwavering determination to help others, even while facing her own battles, is nothing short of heroic."

Lois Goodstein, Case Manager

Our heartfelt thanks to Rachel's incredible support network

Rachel is incredibly grateful for the unwavering support she has received throughout her journey. Her mother, Jean Fordyce, has been by her side through every grueling treatment, including the day she received her stem cells. Her stepfather, Evan Sayet, has brought laughter and joy to her life through it all. Numerous friends, family members, and dedicated medical professionals have also played crucial roles. Special thanks go to her case manager, Lois Goodstein; her retired oncologist, Dr. Pablo Parker; her neurosurgeon, Dr. Michael Chen; and an assortment of amazing nurses who provided exceptional care. A monumental thank you is also extended to Diane Boyd for her tireless efforts in organizing this fundraising event and managing so many complex details—she is truly a miracle worker.