MyLifeLine.org Cancer Foundation

Background Statement

MyLifeLine was founded in 2007 by Marcia Donziger, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1997, when she was 27 years old. The Internet existed at the time, but not with the fullness it does now. She recalls feeling overwhelmed by the volume of concern, during a time when she was struggling to fight the cancer inside her. She couldn't physically return all the phone calls herself, and found it emotionally draining to repeat the same information about her condition, over and over. She often felt guilty for not staying in better touch with the people who cared about her.

In 2003, Marcia became aware of a special young woman, Lori Arquilla Andersen, who had just been diagnosed with cancer. Marcia was profoundly inspired - not just by Lori's strength through crisis, but also by the way she harnessed the tools available to stay in touch with her family and friends during her illness. Through her own personal website, she posted her progress and courageously (and humorously!) inspired all who followed her struggle. As time went on, Lori's support network expanded beyond her imagination. People visited Lori's site to write encouraging messages, offer help to her family, or just stay updated and keep her in their prayers.

Inspired by Lori and her family, Marcia saw the tremendous benefit for cancer patients to communicate via a personal website. Sharing updates and managing caring messages via one central website can help everyone touched by cancer to deal with it.