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Supporting individuals and families facing serious illness by easing financial hardship and mobilizing community support.
On February 8, 2026, this community showed up in an incredible way.
To everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, sponsored, or supported Lauren and her family in any form, thank you. The outpouring of love and generosity made this day deeply meaningful.
While the benefit was a powerful milestone, the work is not over. Lauren’s journey continues, and Fighting Forward will keep showing up for her and her family in the months ahead.
Lauren's Story
Lauren's Story
Lauren Gilbert is a wife, mother, author, and healthcare operations leader from Collegeville, Pennsylvania. She and her husband Dan are raising two young children, Ella and Austin.
In April 2025, Lauren was diagnosed with Stage IV signet-ring cell adenocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of colon cancer. Since her diagnosis, Lauren has stepped away from work to focus fully on treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and participation in a clinical trial in Philadelphia.
Throughout her illness, Lauren has remained deeply committed to her children and family. She has found purpose in writing, creativity, and small acts of love that allow her to remain present in her children’s lives, even on difficult days.
Surrounded by the support of her family, friends, and community, Lauren continues to face her diagnosis with honesty, strength, and an enduring focus on what matters most: love, connection, and time together.
Read more at Business Insider (apologies if there is a paywall!).
Lauren in the News
Lauren in the News
CBS3 Philadelphia
CBS3 Philadelphia
CBS3 Philadelphia showcased Lauren and Dan through the eyes of a first responder community coming together for one of their own.
How to Support Lauren
How to Support Lauren
Lauren continues to focus on treatment, healing, and time with her family. Ongoing support helps ease the financial and emotional weight of this journey and allows her to stay present where it matters most.
If you’re looking for a way to help, contributions can still be made in support of Lauren and her family.
Opens our secure fundraising page
Support Fighting Forward
Support Fighting Forward
Fighting Forward provides direct support to individuals and families facing serious illness. Your donation helps ease financial strain and allows families to focus on care, stability, and time together.
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