Hello, my name is Caitlin Zahirniak and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart and a humble request for support which will benefit my sister-in-law, Michelle Maler-Vrana. Michelle underwent surgery on February 17th, 2025, to remove her breast tumors as she was told less than a month before that she did, in fact, have breast cancer. This came as a shock to all of us. As I sat with my brother in the waiting room that day, I was filled with tears that would not stop for her. She already had cancer once when she was 21, of the throat. They have endured many hardships as a family over the years, but they never give up and keep going. They show up every day for their children, to work, and most importantly, every Sunday to Church in Tokio, TX.

While they were removing the tumors, more cancer was found, and she was told she will have to undergo chemo and radiation. As of today, she has stage 3A cancer. While she was upset waking up to this news, she still is positive and is truly giving herself to God to guide her and her family through this. I’m asking for support for medical bills and the struggle of bills they are about to endure. As chemo and radiation will start, it is going to take a toll on her, and she doesn’t deserve to lose one thing over this. She has been at the same job for over 15 years and deserves to be supported during this time that she could have never imagined. Within a couple of months, her whole life has changed, and every contribution—no matter the size—makes a significant difference in alleviating the stress of bills, allowing her to focus on her recovery.

I am working on a benefit; if anyone would like to help me organize one, please reach out.

Thank you for helping me fight for her.