2 min readBy Published On: June 22nd, 2015Categories: Features0 Comments on Friendship Party for Billie Jo Rogers-Ryan

Come on out and show your support, Southie!

Billie Jo Rogers- Ryan was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer in December 2013. It has been a tough fight over the past year and a half for Billie Jo, along with her husband Dan, 5-year-old daughter Isabella, parents Donna and Gary, and her brother Gary. She has proven to be a strong woman who is fighting this cruel disease each day. Her treatment program began with a double mastectomy in March 2014 with follow-up chemotherapy treatment. Shortly after her mastectomy, she discovered that the cancer had spread to three spots on her bones.  

Last summer, Billie Jo received radiation, and for the duration of the treatment she needed to be taken off the chemo treatment that targets certain areas, such as those on her bones. In December 2014, she was informed that the cancer had not spread and the spots on her bones had been contained. This was good news, for the bone tumors hadn’t grown, and one had actually shrunk. As she continued her weekly chemo sessions this past winter at MGH, Billie Jo had good and bad days, but she remained positive.

This past April, Billie Jo once again was informed that the cancer had spread, this time to her liver. She has been going through a new treatment of chemo, one that is quite potent leaving her white blood counts very low at times and causing fatigue and nausea. She has recently taken a Medical Leave from work to prioritize her health. Although Billie Jo’s cancer has spread, there is a lot of positivity. The doctors at MGH are optimistic with the current treatment she is receiving and most importantly; when Billie Jo gets up every day and looks her five-year-daughter Isabella in the eyes, the fight against cancer is priority. Billie Jo has the utmost positive attitude and will fight this fight, but not alone. She has an amazing TEAM beside her, a TEAM that continues to grow, day by day.
 
Billy Jo’s friends and family have organized a special fundrasier for her on Friday, June 26th at 7pm at Florian Hall (55 Hallet Street, Dorchester).  There will be raffles, prizes, dancing, a cash bar and lots of fun for a great cause.  Tickets are $25.  For tickets you can reach out to Mary Nee Loftus at 617-269-5611 or email [email protected]