Fund for Vanessa's Medical Journey
Donation protected
Too often we hear of unfair and devastating news. Though we are sympathetic and hopeful for those affected, we never think that it will happen close to us, until it comes unexpectedly and turns our world upside down.
For the last couple of months, my sister Vanessa was experiencing dizzy spells, imblance while walking, headaches, and vomiting. She did not know that these were the symptoms of something greater and more serious. On December 14th, an MRI revealed a tumor in my beautiful, successful 28 year old sister's cerebellum. Her doctors moved quickly and performed brain surgery that week and removed the tumor. However, we learned that Vanessa’s tumor was malignant medulloblastoma which is a cancerous brain tumor found mostly in children. Only about one-third of all medulloblastomas diagnosed in the U.S. are found in adults. Vanessa now faces a rigorous 1 year treatment regimen consisting of chemotherapy and radiation to prevent future growth. The treatment will significantly affect her daily responsibilities and impact her quality of life in so many ways.
Despite her stubborn protests, this page is being created so that everyone who loves her and is inspired by her can help keep Vanessa and our family strong this new year while she endures her biggest challenge yet.
Nobody is comfortable enough for the unpredictable and daunting fallout of cancer treatment. Together with Vanessa, we face many lifestyle changes and financial obstacles (even with uncovered/unexpected medical costs, copays and deductibles significantly add up). We are all confident that Vanessa will continue to be the amazing fighter we know her to be, but there will undoubtedly be many obstacles to overcome.
The money raised will go towards medical bills and her treatment related costs. As a family we are forever grateful for any donations, no matter how small. It means so much to see people reaching out regardless of a monetary contribution. Thank you for keeping Vanessa in your thoughts and prayers and for your continued support throughout this process.
For the last couple of months, my sister Vanessa was experiencing dizzy spells, imblance while walking, headaches, and vomiting. She did not know that these were the symptoms of something greater and more serious. On December 14th, an MRI revealed a tumor in my beautiful, successful 28 year old sister's cerebellum. Her doctors moved quickly and performed brain surgery that week and removed the tumor. However, we learned that Vanessa’s tumor was malignant medulloblastoma which is a cancerous brain tumor found mostly in children. Only about one-third of all medulloblastomas diagnosed in the U.S. are found in adults. Vanessa now faces a rigorous 1 year treatment regimen consisting of chemotherapy and radiation to prevent future growth. The treatment will significantly affect her daily responsibilities and impact her quality of life in so many ways.
Despite her stubborn protests, this page is being created so that everyone who loves her and is inspired by her can help keep Vanessa and our family strong this new year while she endures her biggest challenge yet.
Nobody is comfortable enough for the unpredictable and daunting fallout of cancer treatment. Together with Vanessa, we face many lifestyle changes and financial obstacles (even with uncovered/unexpected medical costs, copays and deductibles significantly add up). We are all confident that Vanessa will continue to be the amazing fighter we know her to be, but there will undoubtedly be many obstacles to overcome.
The money raised will go towards medical bills and her treatment related costs. As a family we are forever grateful for any donations, no matter how small. It means so much to see people reaching out regardless of a monetary contribution. Thank you for keeping Vanessa in your thoughts and prayers and for your continued support throughout this process.
Organizer and beneficiary
Julia Merenda
Organizer
New York, NY
Vanessa Merenda
Beneficiary
