Last updated: 8.24.25

Dear friends,

My name is Christine Ristaino and the Soleils are dear friends of mine. Many of you have asked how you can help the Soleils in light of the progression of cancer for Lydia. Lydia is on several medicines, that cause unpredictable side effects, and will continue to have regular scans to check on the progression and allow the doctors to change her treatment plan when needed. I’ve spoken to Lydia and Dave again about their family’s needs at this next stage. 

 

The Soleils still need understanding and grace. Lydia still as a fair amount of doctors appointments each week. She has been mostly feeling good, is working full time, and is able to help around the house a lot more. She does have harder days and sometimes weeks due to the various medicines she takes. She also needs to use weekends for some extra resting time.  Dave is still taking on more of the household responsibilities than before her diagnosis, working full time, and is still tracking all medical expenses, and fighting with medical providers and insurance companies when they get it wrong.

So, they both still have less free time and energy than before the cancer diagnosis in May of 2024 but thankfully more than they did during chemo, surgery, and radiation. 

They love everyone on this list and appreciate our support so much. I am keeping in my heart that even if I don’t hear from them when I email or call, I know they love me dearly and just don’t have the bandwidth to respond. This is the same for everyone on this list. Given I’m helping them organize care, know that I’m always here if you have questions about their needs (cristai@emory.edu). 

Below you will see a list of the things the Soleils need at the moment. This list is subject to change as their needs and treatments change. 

 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart and theirs for all you are doing. 

 

So much love, 

 

Christine (and the Soleils)

 

 
Things the Soleils always need

1) Ocean's Out of State College Fund (Soleil's have been appealing since May to get more financial aid but it has not gone through yet.) 
2) New Siding and Gutters Project (Soleil's desperately need new siding and gutters)
3) Screen house fund (Lydia loves to be outside but the Georgia bugs love Lydia!)  

3) Seize the day fund - Allow the Soleils to say yes to fun experiences they wouldn't otherwise