A neighborhood effort is underway to help a Freeland woman in her battle against cancer.

Rikki Moress was diagnosed in March with ampullary cancer, a rare, deadly and fast-moving form of pancreatic cancer. Moress is working with a naturopathic oncologist and undergoing non-toxic alternative cancer therapies performed by a clinic outside the U.S. The treatments are not covered by insurance, however, and a group of supporters, TEAM RIKKI, have banded together to help raise money for Moress’s mounting medical bills.

TEAM RIKKI, which numbers about a dozen strong, is composed of family and friends but largely of neighbors — about 10. Moress lives in a small but tight community near Goodell Road and White Fir Place in Freeland.

“Everyone is equally special, loved and valued in our ‘hood. We look after one another, do projects together, hang out together,” said Sue Averett, in an email to The Record.

Moress said the area and its people was more than just a special place.

“I feel that this is my Eden, my home on Whidbey Island,” she said. “And all of my amazing friends, neighbors, and family are my angels. [They are] watching out for my well-being and bringing me love, joy, and hope.”

Moress has called Whidbey home since 2004. She is a former schools volunteer and was a regular fixture at Marguerite Brons Dog Park in Bayview with her recently deceased Chesapeake Bay retriever, Ed Butler.

People can donate in a number of ways. A GoFundMe account, www.gofundme.com/rikkicare, was established for online contributions, and an account was set up at Whidbey Island Bank, the “Ian Jackson medical expense account for R.M.” for direct donations.

The team is also hosting a fundraising event in August that’s expected to bring in a significant contribution. It’s by invitation only due to limited space. To check on availability, call 360-331-3393.