Hey Class of ’06,

As many of you already know, our classmate Amanda Heath is currently undergoing treatment for Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer. She was diagnosed earlier this year and has been openly sharing her journey on social…the highs, the lows, and the reality of treatment through the eyes of a patient. And man… she has been through so much.

As a nurse at the James Cancer Hospital, I’ve walked this path with many patients and many loved ones. It’s not an easy path. A few years ago, my sister-in-law was diagnosed right before the holidays, and a season that’s supposed to be joyful felt incredibly heavy. My unit ended up “adopting” their family for Christmas, and the difference it made was something I’ll never forget.

Although we’re all spread out now, and somehow nearly 20 years post-graduation , if there’s one thing you learn growing up in a small town, it’s what community feels like. And regardless the time or distance, you always look out for one another. So I wanted to reach out and ask if we can all come together to help make this holiday season a little brighter for Amanda and her beautiful family. Absolutely no pressure, I know this time of year can be hard for many. But if you feel called to help in any way, big or small, it truly adds up.

We will keep this GoFundMe rolling until December 1st. Kristin Fair, who is still incredibly close with Amanda, will then present Amanda with it. That way their family can use the money however they want to enjoy the holidays to make it extra special. Also, I know I’m missing a lot of classmates on here, so if you’re connected with others, please feel free to add them. The more the merrier!

I still can’t believe it’s been nearly 20 years… we are officially old now . Hope you’re all doing well!

Sincerely,

Melissa Markley (Missy Grewe)