A single mom from Orillia, battling cancer, has been been given six months to live.
Ashley Faris, 37, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in October of 2020. She says the disease has completely "shaken the foundation" of her family.
"My diagnosis has been heartbreaking for my family," she said. "It has also brought us closer together and made us all realize that time is precious."
Faris says the diagnosis has put immense stress on her family, both emotionally and financially. She worries about her four-year-old daughter Rainleigh, whose father passed away last year.
"Rainleigh will be very loved by family," Faris said. "She will remain where we are living now with my parents."
Faris is hopeful that Rainleigh will go on to live a happy and healthy life without her mom's physical presence.
"I'm hoping the only change for her is that I won't be there," she explained. "Routine is so important for her, so as little change as possible is key."
Faris says her family is still in the process of trying to explain the tragic circumstance to her daughter.
"We are getting some resources in place to help her understand what's happening," she said.
While it's been difficult to deal with the emotions of this health crisis, Faris says the illness has been even more difficult on a physical level.
"I encountered multiple complications during treatments," she explained. "The treatments for those complications have led to more complications. Mentally, they have taken a toll as well. I try not to think about it too much."
Faris says her doctors are working hard trying to find some options so that she can keep fighting, but she knows she's losing the battle.
"Unfortunately, things aren't looking very promising," she said. "I'm doing more tests next week to find out just how fast it's progressing."
Faris says it's difficult to comprehend the end of her life is near.
"I haven't allowed myself the time to fully feel it yet," she said. "I'm staying strong for my little girl. That's what's keeping me going."
To help Faris and her family financially, a community-driven social media platform founded by three Orillia friends, The Mom Collective, is collecting donations to support the family.
"They are shinning their lights for us in this incredibly dark time," Faris said. "It means the world to me. I'm speechless and forever grateful."
The donations will be used to support the family so they can comfortably enjoy their remaining time together.
Upon Faris' death, the donations will continue to support Rainleigh, who was born prematurely and has autistic spectrum disorder. She has required ongoing medical care and treatments following eye surgery at 18 months.
Faris thanks everyone who has decided to donate to the fundraiser.
"There really are no words that can convey how grateful I am," she said. "Thank you all so very much."
To make a donation or to contact The Mom Collective, click here.
