Hope for Judy: supporting local mom battling cancer
Danyelle Burke North
Editors note: Judy Hayes reached out to News 11 to clarify that yes, at one point she did have state 3 cancer, but when doctors removed some the tumors, doctors then told her that she now has stage 1 cancer.
She does not have stage 3 cancer. After surgeries, she is at stage 1.
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – A local mom is clinging to faith and hope during her battle with cancer. Judy Hayes has been battling stage three ovarian cancer for a little over six months.
She says she’s experienced severe side effects with her chemotherapy and surgeries that make it difficult for her to work and take care of her younger children.
“It’s been very challenging. Like I’ve been stretched in many ways treatment, home, finances,” said Judy Hayes.
But she’s still hopeful.
“You have to hold faith in something to get through something like this because, you know, I feel like in my case, I feel like God is by my side. I feel like he’s walking with me, and, I just thank Him for giving me another day and getting me through the day or for the help that I get,” said Hayes.
Through her faith, she started her nonprofit “Grace in Motion” helping feed and provide food and resources to those who are homeless in the community. Her friend says it’s inspiring to see her always going out of her way to help others, and now hopes others help support her during this difficult time.
“When I saw that she was struggling with finances, I thought, ‘You know what? She’s given so much to the community and selflessly and tirelessly all the time.’ I thought it would be incredible if people just knew about her so that they could reach out to her and help her as well,” said Judy’s friend Jose Arguelles.
If you would like to help support, Judy has an upcoming food sale fundraiser Saturday May 17th from 11am-3pm at the American Legion Post #56. There will be lunch, music, raffles, and a 50/50 drawing. You can also support her GoFund me link here.