Melissa's Fight Against Ovarian Cancer

On September 24th, we received some devastating news. My Mother, Melissa, was diagnosed with Stage IV Ovarian Cancer at the young age of 54. Four short weeks ago she developed what seemed to be a harmless cough, and doctors began treating for seasonal allergies. When the cough did not go away, further testing showed fluid in her lung. Doctors then diagnosed what they thought was pneumonia and treated her with 2 different antibiotics. When my Mike and Melissa returned from their 30th wedding anniversary trip in France, she went back for more testing as the symptoms seemed to only worsen - cough, pain, bloating. Upon removal and testing of 1.1 liters of fluid off her lung, the pulmonologist found malignant cells in the fluid. A full abdominal CT scan and ultrasound revealed 2 ovarian cysts - 18 cm and 10 cm. Fast forward a couple of days and she was diagnosed with Stage IV Ovarian cancer. The game plan - 9 weeks of chemo, surgery to remove the two cysts, then 9 more weeks of chemo. 

Melissa is a first-time Grandmother (“Gram”) to our daughter, Charlotte Grace Heineke. She is a wife of 30 years, a mother of 27 years, and a loving friend to many. She is a shoulder to cry on, a warrior, a helping hand, and a smile when you need it. It would be an understatement to say my Mom is the greatest person I have ever known. She is the rock of our family, and is selfless and kind. She never complains and always puts others first. She touches every person that meets her, and has spent hours upon hours filling God’s Inbox with prayers for other people (and animals too). My parents are humble people, and would never ask for help. But we need your help. With upcoming medical bills combined with the time away from work, they could use financial grace (while they would never ask for it). With my Dad’s physical instability, he is unable to work. And my Mom will have to take a minimum of 6 months to a year off of work. All donations will help with medical bills, groceries, mortgage, and all living expenses while she is fighting cancer and subsequently healing. 

No no donation is too small. Thank you for your continued love and prayers. 

For questions, reach out to Amanda Heineke.