Maureen (Casados) Swanson is fighting the battle of her life after recently being diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer.

Whittier~Recently, the La Mirada Blog was contacted by community member, Monica Casados informing us that on April 28^th of this year, her sister Maureen, 37, was admitted to Whittier Presbyterian Hospital after experiencing stomach pains. Tests later revealed Stage 4 Colon Cancer that has metastasized into her lungs and liver. 

Maureen and her husband Chad have two young daughters, Samantha 9 and Zoe 5.

Maureen is a lifelong resident of Whittier, CA, where she remains extremely close with her tight-knit family and high school friends. Maureen has worked professionally in La Mirada and Whittier her entire life.

Growing up in the unincorporated part of Whittier, Maureen attended La Mirada Schools, Mesa Elementary, Gardenhill Elementary, and then La Mirada High School (there was no middle schools during this period). 

Maureen and her family, still have many friends in La Mirada.
Family and friends of Maureen (Casados) Swanson will be hosting a fundraising event to assist with her medical expenses and would like to invite the public. 

The fundraiser will be on November 12th, 2010-a Poker Tournament/Casino Night/ Bingo at Smart's Banquet Hall in Whittier. 

The family is also requesting in-kind donations for the raffle/silent auction at this event. They are hoping to make these fundraisers a success, but need the help of our community.

They are asking for your help in making these fundraisers a success by donating a gift, sponsoring a table, making a monetary donation or attending the events.

The funds raised will help their family pay for medical expenses while she undergoes treatment.

Although her daily routine is difficult, Maureen is fighting hard to prolong her life and prays for the successful future of her family.

Until recently, she was employed as a Massage Therapist at Healthways Chiropractic in La Mirada and as a Substitute Cafeteria Worker in the East Whittier City School District; and she deeply misses her co-workers, clients and the elementary school children.

If you would like to attend either event or make a donation, please contact Monica Casados at 562-536-9002 or email: SwansonFundraiser@verizon.net. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Monetary donations can also be made to a donation account at Bank of America, Maureen Swanson acct #09625-71774.