Chronic cancer survivor drowning in medical bills

Nina has had nearly a dozen surgeries during her more than 20 year struggle with cancer. As a six time cancer survivor, she was diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome in 2017. Lynch Syndrome is a hereditary disorder that leaves her susceptible to multiple cancers. 

Nina has met with legislators in Columbus and Washington D.C. on behalf of the American Cancer Society to share her story and raise awareness for the need of cancer research funding. She helped raise nearly $250.000.00 during the 24 hour Parma Relay For Life event and was actually married at a Relay For Life event surrounded by hundreds of other cancer survivors. As a result of her efforts she was selected as the Volunteer of the Year for the Cleveland Chapter of the American Cancer Society. 

A passionate local business owner and beloved adjunct professor at The North Coast College (formally The Virginia Marti College of Art and Design). She declared bankruptcy in 2013 as a result of the medical bills due and her inability to work. 

She has had three more surgeries in 2018 and this year.  During that time she spent 11 days in the ICU and nearly two months in the hospital. Nina was recently back in the hospital due to further complications with her surgeries (April 2019) and continues to receive treatment on a daily basis.

Nina and her devoted husband, JT bravely face these life and death issues on a regular basis, but it has left them saddled in debt. We are seeking compassionate donors to raise a minimum of $25k to help them get even with their latest medical crisis. Thank you for your love, support and prayers.

Their local newspaper, Nordonia Hills News (Cleveland) published her husband's inspiring story in July 2017 that you can view here: http://nordoniahills.news/nina-messinas-brave-story/