Hello everyone, I’m starting a GoFundMe to help my brother and sister-in-law with some unfortunate and unforeseen recent events. They’re not ones to ask for help, but this has been a very difficult time for them and is taking its toll on them financially. Here is her story:

In March of 2020, at the age of 37 Melinda Gaul was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and was told she had 18months to live. This was devastating news to her, as she is a mother of 3 wonderful children (2 girls and a boy). She went to City of Hope and began chemotherapy treatment in June of 2020 and finished at the end of December. March of 2021, she had a hysterectomy where they found the cancer had spread to her ovaries. October of 2021, she needed a rod put in her hip and femur, caused by the weakness from the cancer in her bones. December of 2021, she was admitted to the hospital where they found two blood clots in her heart. January 2022, she did another round of radiation for 5 days. She has cancer in her spine, shoulders, breastbone, right leg and hips, and breast. During this time, she has been admitted to the hospital for a variety of complications.

In order to live and keep battling, Melinda must have “maintenance” treatments every 21 days and take chemotherapy pills two times a day for the rest of her life. She also has to take 13 other medications every day. Her husband Jon is her only caregiver and the sole provider for their family. As difficult as a time this has been for his wife Melinda, it has been extremely difficult for Jon to balance the demands of his job, while taking care of his wife. Currently, they have to go down to City of Hope 4-6 times every month, and she has a few more surgeries coming up this May.

The financial burden of the hospital stays, medications, surgeries, cancer treatment, and traveling expenses, have become very heavy for them. Jon does not get compensated for taking time off to be by his wife’s side or take her to treatment/appointments. I’m asking my fellow community, friends, and family for any kind of assistance or help. Even if you’re unable to donate, I ask that you please share this post. Thank you, have a blessed day.