WATERLOO -- Kymm Ehler was 33 weeks pregnant with her fourth child when she found the lump on her right breast during a self-exam in May 2006.

The first tests came back negative for cancer and Ehler went on to deliver a bouncing baby boy just a few weeks later. But, in November she found a second lump. This time, testing showed the presence of three lumps and doctors performed a lumpectomy in December. A week later she underwent the knife again for a mastectomy on the right side. In three weeks she was back to have her left breast removed.

While trying to determine the best route of treatment, Ehler underwent a full body scan to make sure the cancer hadn't spread to any other part of her body. It had. The cancer metastasized in her liver. In just one week her cancer had gone from stage two to stage four.

The family and doctors quickly decided to start a once-a-week chemotherapy plan that could last four to six months. Ehler will have another cat scan next month to see if the cancer cells on her liver are shrinking. When the chemotherapy is complete the family and doctors will work together again to determine if more surgery or radiation will give Ehler the best chance at remission.

"I was doing really good until about (Sunday)," Ehler said of the chemotherapy. Each Friday Ehler spends about two hours at the hospital undergoing treatment. "I don't know how people do it without a support system. Without my family, I don't know what I would do. My husband has become Mr. Mom tenfold. And he doesn't complain. He cooks and cleans and doesn't ask questions."

Ehler has returned to work at Covenant Medical Center where she has worked for eight years in labor and delivery. Her co-workers, friends and family are uniting to host a benefit for Ehler and her family, husband Brian, and four children, Austin, 6, Skylar, 4, Audrey, 2 and Collin, 8 months.

"I have been completely overwhelmed by everyone's generosity and thoughtfulness and help," Ehler said.

Kent Larsen is one of the many helping organize the event. He understands the toll cancer can take on a family.

"My wife went through it and whenever it is in the advanced stages, people can lose a lot of hope," he said. "This was something we could do for her, to support her. She's a 32-year-old young woman in Stage 4. She needs the support. We want to allow her to have the best treatment or care she can. We want them to be able to do what is necessary without any monetary restrictions."

The benefit will include a meal, silent and life auction, door prizes and musical entertainment. All proceeds from the event will go to the Ehler family. Those who can't attend but would like to donate can do so at any Veridian Credit Union branch.

Contact Emily Christensen at (319) 291-1520 or emily.christensen@wcfcourier.com.

{M3Go & Do

What: Kymm Ehler family benefit

When: Friday, 7 p.m.

Where: John Deere Supervisor's Club

Cost: $15 adults, $7 kids 5-12