MONTGOMERY VILLAGE, Md. — A Maryland mother of five with terminal cancer is preparing her family for her departure and raising awareness.
She wants her story to be an example to other women who may fear going to the doctor.
Kourtni Smith was diagnosed with Stage 3 invasive lobular carcinoma in 2021.
"I’m asking them question like, could it be this, stuff I’ve read about online and they said 'no, it’s cancer,'" Kourtni said.
In April she was diagnosed with Stage 4.
Just three weeks ago, doctors told her the cancer was in her brain, giving her only a few months left to live. She’s focusing on making memories with her family, and planning for what’s to come.
Andre Smith, Kourtni's husband, said, "Our 2-year-old son, he always keeps us smiling. So it’s really the kids that’s keeping us up like this.”
Kourtni first noticed a dimple in her breast.
When her baby was born, she was unable to produce milk. That’s when she finally saw a doctor.
She believes her fear was to blame.
"Evidently, I was chosen for something," Kourtni said. "I feel like now I can save someone’s life. Here I am – 34 and I’m dying because I was afraid to go to the doctor."
She’s done three rounds of chemo, radiation, and just spent three weeks in hospice. Doctors are now keeping her comfortable with pain medication.
Kourtni will leave behind her husband and five children.
"I would want them to know that I love them, and I love them so much," Kourtni said. "I would go to any drastic measures to make sure they’re okay. Even behind the grave."
Kourtni has a GoFundMe page set up to help with funeral expenses. She’s also working on a children’s book to leave behind for her son. As of Thanksgiving night, the online fundraiser has collected nearly $100,000.
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