Key Highlights :
The heartbreaking story of a mother with terminal cancer and her daughter's mission to make as many memories as possible has inspired a fundraiser to help them make the most of their time together. Elayne Kaftan, from Ely, was diagnosed with stage four cervical cancer and acute kidney failure in November 2022. Despite undergoing cancer treatment for several months, doctors have informed her that the cancer will eventually kill her.
In response to her diagnosis, Elayne's daughter Chloe Kaftan has launched a fundraiser in hopes of raising money for her mother's treatment and to help them spend as much family time together as possible. The money raised will go towards activities and mementos such as arts and crafts, taking photos, and creating a photo album. Elayne also wants some "memory bears" made from her clothes, photo blankets, and life-coping “first aid kits.”
Elayne said, “First aid kits are just little boxes that have a picture, a message or something special between me and my child that can be opened when they need to the most. I take some comfort in knowing that the things they are seeing are personalised to them alone.”
In the fundraiser, Chloe said, "We want to make as many memories as possible with her in the time we have left. It’s come to the part where we want to spend as much time as a family doing as much as we can. We would really appreciate any help that can be given and wondered if you could spare a £1 or two so that way we can make as many memories together as we can."
Elayne was first diagnosed with cancer at Hinchingbrooke Hospital, where doctors said she could be cured with five weeks of radiotherapy and one week of chemotherapy. She sat her children down and told them the news, but an MRI scan in March revealed that the cancer had not gone away.
Elayne said, “I went in thinking the worst will be more radiotherapy which was tough enough but at least it's a step forward. Unfortunately, when the Doctor came in he held my hand and told me the cancer isn't going away with the treatment, and there was nothing more they could do to get my cancer gone.”
Chloe and Elayne are hoping that the money raised can help them make the most of their time together. They want to use the money to create mementos and memories that will last a lifetime, such as photo albums, memory bears, and first aid kits.
The Kaftans' story has touched the hearts of many and has already raised more than £3,500. With the donations they receive, Elayne and Chloe will be able to make the most of the time they have left together and create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.
The story of Elayne and Chloe Kaftan is an inspiring one that shows the power of family and the strength of the human spirit. It is hoped that the donations will help them make as many memories as possible and that Elayne will be able to cherish them for years to come.
Title: Making Memories: The Inspiring Story of Elayne and Chloe Kaftan and Their Mission to Spend Time Together