Multiple Myeloma

Our sister is officially “ZERO” years old!!!

Initially, the multiple Doctor’s visits had her mind at ease knowing that while she was suffering from severe back issues, physical therapy was her course of action for improvement. We cannot explain the emotions we felt when we found out on November 18, 2021 that our baby sister had Multiple Myeloma. We were shocked because not one of her prior doctor’s visits from the past years revealed anything close to the word “cancer “, much less Multiple Myeloma. Immediately, we began praying as we learned more about Multiple Myeloma which is a rare form of blood cancer that affects plasma cells.

Melinda teaching at school during Chemo Treatments

We encouraged our sister to get a second opinion that ultimately confirmed the first - Melinda had stage 2 Multiple Myeloma. Melinda immediately started Chemotherapy along with weekly shots in her abdomen that later caused a severe case of neuropathy. Along with chemotherapy, Melinda underwent a Stem Cell Transplant. Melinda had her Stem Cell transplant in April of 2022. We continued to pray together as a family weekly turning to God as we waited on updates of her status.

Melinda after stem cell transplant

Video from Hospital

https://youtu.be/MRokwkBtutg

It’s been a very long journey and as of July 2022, Melinda is cancer free.

Melinda was very excited to get this news and anxiously made plans to go back to school teaching 5th graders. Melinda is an educator and has been for 20 years. She has earned the “Teacher of The Year” award twice which speaks to her dedication and commitment. While we were ready to see Melinda living life and enjoying the little things that we often take for granted, Melinda’s body was not ready. A Stem Cell transplants wipes out your immunity you’ve built up all your life and you start back over at “Zero” years old. Melinda has made three visits to the Emergency Room because of difficulties she has experienced during her recovery period. She was diagnosed with pneumonia after returning to work for 2 days of the new school year and hospitalized two weeks later with a fever and infection. While in her mind she wants to work, her body is physically not there.

Melinda is unable to start vaccinations until October 2022 and will finish in April of 2023. She must re-start every immunization while dealing with nausea, neuropathy, weight loss and impaired immune function, which are only a few side effects.

Melinda has no option but to take a leave from work until her body has a proper chance to heal and get stronger to build her immunity.

Melinda never expected to be in this space. She has exhausted all of her sick days she has accumulated over the years along with the days donated from the awesome group of educators that she works with at school. We are asking for your help and kindness for Melinda and her family. It is most important to Melinda that she returns to school and that she continues to support her family. We need you and your generosity to do so!!!!!!

Please help us as we come together to support Melinda and her family. If you know anyone that has dealt with Cancer and recovery, you know how hard it is. Words of comfort and support mean a great deal as well.

Thank you - Senica, Felicia, Balinda & Melinda