Help Dayna Heal: Let’s Lighten Her Load Together

Story

Hi, my name is Dayna Edwards. I’ve spent my life building connections—first in construction project management, then in the service industry, where my love for food and people found its true home.

In 2010, I moved to Illinois with my two children (now amazing young adults) to start fresh. In 2014, I changed careers and never looked back. Hospitality wasn’t just my job—it was my passion, my joy, and my second home. I thrived in vibrant spaces filled with live music, art, laughter, and regulars who became like family.

But everything changed in late 2024.

In November, I was unexpectedly let go from my job. Just weeks later, in December, I received a life-altering diagnosis: Stage 2B triple-positive breast cancer.

Since then, I’ve completed 16 rounds of chemotherapy and am preparing for surgery on May 29, with radiation, reconstruction, and long-term hormone therapy still ahead. I’ve had to put everything on hold—work, social life, and the vibrant community connections I cherish.

And with that pause came a harsh reality: no income, no financial safety net, and no eligibility for disability or unemployment.

My savings are nearly gone. I’m facing basic expenses like rent, groceries, phone bill, utilities, and even medications for my dog without any way to pay for them. The stress is overwhelming—but I’m still fighting, every day.

That’s why I’m humbly asking for your help.

A Note from My Son, Jimmy

Last summer, we lost my Memaw —my mom’s mom—to cancer. That loss was devastating. We were just beginning to heal when we got my mom’s diagnosis. It turned my world upside down.

We had planned to move out of our shared home and start new chapters, but now, being apart during her fight feels unimaginable. I want to be with her every step of the way, and that means I’ve had to scale back work as well.

My mom is bubbly & one of the warmest gregarious ladies who is passionate about her work & community. She lights up every room with her energy. Before cancer, she was volunteering, supporting local artists, enjoyed the live music scene, cooking for friends & family and celebrating life to the fullest. Now, cancer has taken her away from the world she loves—and the world that loves her.

She needs her community now more than ever.

How You Can Help
We’re raising funds to cover Dayna’s essential living expenses through the end of the year, so she can focus on healing—without the crushing stress of finances.

Every dollar you give goes toward:
Rent and utilities
Groceries and essentials
Transportation to treatment
Her beloved dog’s allergy medication and food
A safe, stable space to recover

Your support can give Dayna the peace of mind she needs to heal—and help her return to the vibrant life she built, the one she so deeply deserves.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of her healing journey.

With deep gratitude,
Dayna & Jimmy

Organizers :

Dayna Edwards is organizing this fundraiser.