Stratford Veterinarian Assistant Battles Cancer For 2nd Time, Community Rallies Support

STRATFORD, CT — The community is rallying around a Stratford veterinarian assistant who is battling breast cancer for a second time.

Carly Pietrosimone has worked at the Stratford Animal Hospital at 480 Knowlton St. in Stratford since 2017. She is “best known for taking photos with all the pets and always smiling,” according to the Stratford Animal Hospital’s website.

The animal hospital recently shared an update to its clients about Pietrosimone being diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer.

“Five years ago, our colleague Carly received a breast cancer diagnosis, prompting an outpouring of support from our remarkable community,” a post on the Stratford Animal Hospital’s Facebook page reads. “Carly demonstrated exceptional resilience, undergoing chemotherapy while maintaining her signature positivity and enthusiasm. Throughout her journey, the Stratford Animal Hospital team stood by her side, exemplifying the unwavering support of a family.

“Recently, Carly received the news that her cancer has returned, now at stage four. While this update is distressing, we have every confidence in Carly's strength and determination. As she navigates this challenging time, she can rely on the unwavering support of her SAH family, as well as the broader community that admires her courage such as her family and friends.”

The animal hospital said Pietrosimone will be taking a temporary leave of absence in September to “focus on her treatments and her family.”

“We assure her that she will be welcomed back with open arms whenever she is ready to return,” the post reads.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help Pietrosimone with medical expenses.

The GoFundMe page, titled “Carly's Army: Together We're Stronger #CarlyStrong,” was created by Carly’s sister, Kelly Pietrosimone.

“With hopeful hearts and positive spirits, our family is standing beside my little sister as she begins her second battle against cancer,” Kelly Pietrosimone wrote in a post on the GoFundMe page. “Currently being diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer, we know we have a long journey ahead... Carly is SO strong and resilient. She didn't let cancer get the best of her last time and we won't let it happen this time!

“We are grateful to not fight this alone. Many of you have already reached out with love, prayers, and offers to help. Carly and our family are very grateful for such amazing people in our lives.”

Nearly $23,700 has been raised within the first week of the GoFundMe campaign, as of Wednesday.

For more information, or to make a donation, visit the GoFundMe page here.

Visit the Stratford Animal Hospital on Facebook here.