Fashion designer battling rare form of cancer

Less than a year and a half ago, Havendale, St Andrew, resident Millicent Matthews earned a steady an income as a fashion designer. But these days, the 45-year-old spends the majority of her days at home in bed. She stated that she has fallen on hard times following her diagnosis with leiomyosarcoma, which has forced her to use a wheelchair. She is now seeking the public's assistance with food and bills.

Leiomyosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that affects smooth muscle tissue. Tumours are most common in the abdomen, but can occur anywhere in the body, including the uterus.

They may also appear in blood vessels and on the skin. Matthews said that her bills have been piling up, and she has even received letters from entities stating that if she doesn't pay up, she will have to deal with the bailiff.

"It's been almost a year since I paid my rent and that's $25,000 a month. I have set up a GoFundMe but donations have stopped coming in months ago. I am not looking for handouts, I am just seeking a little help until I can get back on my feet," she said.

Matthews said she is currently being cared for by a woman who she has to pay every fortnight, but she has run extremely low on cash. Loved ones contributed what they can but they have their own challenges. She said she has attempted to start working again but is unable to do so because of the numbness in her legs.

"I am bedridden most of the times. I only go to the clinics. My business is not happening at all and I am on a strict plant-based diet and it's very expensive," she said. "This is not like me because I am a very hard-working person, but because of this illness, I am mostly stuck at home in bed. I have been trying to walk without crutches for the past several days but the doctors have recommended that I do physiotherapy, but that is just a wish right now."

She stressed that she would be extremely grateful for any assistance.

"I may need to travel overseas eventually to see different doctors and get a better understanding of what's happening with the disease. Right now the doctors are doing what they can here in Jamaica. So please pray for me and no matter how big or small, any donation you can send will be greatly appreciated," she said.

Persons wishing to assist Matthews may donate to her Scotiabank account (account number 949717) or contact her at millicentsworld@yahoo.com.