Hi, I'm Monika, a retired LAPD Officer (aka Monika Rehder #39888) I need help and I hope that by you being guided to this campaign, you're looking to help someone deserving.
I was diagnosed with Stage IIIC Ovarian Cancer in May 2017, had to have a total hysterectomy plus 2 baseball-sized tumors removed from my lower body before a string of 6 chemo treatments earned me a temporary "clear." But Christmas 2018 (my 55th birthday) I got re-diagnosed and dove back into treatment. Currently, I'm up to 29 chemo sessions so far and of course, all those treatments have taken a toll on my body overall. I had to cancel the last 11 chemo sessions scheduled, because the side effects where so severe that my body could not take it anymore.
As of the beginning of this year 2021, I have been put on some oral medication to control the tumor growth. At least I am not hooked up to an IV and have my entire body poisoned and I am not dealing with horrible side effects for a while.
My last appointment with my oncologist was kind of interesting and informative. Well, this disease is considered chronic and I will need treatment for the rest of my life. And then I was told "not everyone knows what they are going to die of, but you do." Once I got over the initial shock of those words, I am even more determined to beat this...
These medical treatments do not only put a physical strain on me, but they are also putting a tremendous financial strain on me, which causes a lot of stress.
I worked the streets of Los Angeles as a Police Officer and handled a lot of calls during my career, but I was not expecting to be in a fight for my life like this. Because this disease and because of the horrific side effects of the chemo, I'm not able to work for the first time since immigrating to the US alone at age 26, which takes a toll on my pride. I have no family in this country, only a hand full of supportive and loving friends.
With this campaign I am looking for help from my extended family of brothers and sisters in blue, tan, green, and any other color uniform there is in first responders and military.
Thank you so very much for helping me to add more days to my life with your contributions.
Updates
As I continue this fight, I want to thank the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) for running my campaign in their daily email updates. I am grateful for all the contribution and I am happy to have re-connected with old partners and fellow officers. Thank you everyone for your help...
Hello to everyone that has donated and supported my fundraising. I wanted to give an update on what my progress is. Kaiser finally referred me to City of Hope for an outside look at treatment options. I was really excited and motivated when I had my visit with the oncologist. I’m working on a follow up visits at City of Hope with a surgeon to possibly remove the remaining persistent tumors. I will keep updates on how things go.
I want to thank each one of you that has donated and schemed this fundraiser, and for all the kind words from you. I am grateful for the support I have been getting, and that gives me hope and strength to keep fighting!
Donations & Comments
Only administrators, organizers, and beneficiaries can reply to comments.
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoWill do, I am a fighter and will not quit. Thank you for your kindness and prayers.
God bless you and continue to fight, Monika. Praying for you daily!
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you for your kindness and prayers.
You are in my prayers. Keep the faith.
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you for your help and prayers.
Get better and keep fighting. God bless.
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you so much for your kindness.
Never give up and God Bless
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoI am never giving up. Thank you for your kindness and help. I appreciate you.
May God hold you in the palm of his hand. Jim Speed R2729
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you so much, Jim. I am grateful for you help and kind words.
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you for your support. I appreciate the help.
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you so much for your generous donation. I appreciate you.
Keep up the good fight Monika! Love Ya!!! "XX"
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you Partner. Sorry for responding so late. I am planning to win this fight. Love ya too. XX days...good memories.
Reply from Monika Reinhardt3 years agoThank you, Chris. I appreciate the help.
Non-Donor Comments
There have been no comments to this fundraiser yet.
Hang in there kiddo, thoughts and prayers