In June, security guard Joan Boro was diagnosed with small cell carcinoma, a type of lung cancer.

This type of cancer starts in the bronchi (breathing tubes) and continues to grow all over throughout the body, very rapidly. The tumors can spread to all areas of the body, and chemotherapy is used to treat and prevent the tumors. The cancer is typically caused due to smoking cigarettes, but can also be caused by other medical reasons, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Ms. Sheryl Barbian, Boro’s close friend and co-worker, created a GoFundMe page to help raise money for Boro’s expensive medical treatments. In addition to raising money, this page has allowed people to show their love and support for Boro raising over $5,000.

“I started it because I knew she needed help and one of our bosses suggested that it would be really helpful,” stated Barbian. “We thought about it earlier and we just didn’t get it going but this seemed like the right time to start it for her and since, it’s been really helpful.”

Boro, who was often stationed at the front entrance’s security desk, welcomed many students, co-workers and visitors each day.

“[She] always [has] a smile on her face, always a smile,” stated Ms. Barbian. Boro’s job is currently being covered by a friend and former substitute teacher, Mike Powell. He will be covering until Boro returns to work.

Boro’s chemotherapy treatment was recently completed and for now, she is done with that treatment. She is recovering at home and has begun a research trial as of Oct. 25th. The research trial is for her type of cancer, with the goal being to find more ways to effectively treat it.

Besides working at LHS, Boro had a career in rescuing dogs, which she started in Antioch. She would rescue dogs and foster them until she could find them a safe and loving home.

To show love and support for Boro, on Sunday, Nov. 5 2:00 – 5:00, there will be an event held for her. It will be held at the Aha! Resale Shop, 2106 E. Grand Ave., in Lindenhurst, located in Linden Plaza.

“She is a super special person and we want to show her appreciation for that as well as all the animals she has helped throughout these years with Underdog Rescue,” said Sharon Johnson via email, the owner of Aha!