Support Melissa's Fight Against Cancer

Some of you know me and some don’t, but here’s for those who don’t: Hey, I’m Melissa. I’m 28 years old and I have stage 4 breast cancer. It’s combined with the BRCA2+ mutation and HER+; in a nutshell, a lot of cancer. I was diagnosed in 2022, and since then, I’ve just been working hard to get better and kind of never ask for help, but unfortunately, that has changed.

In 2023, I lost my ability to walk but fortunately was able to regain that strength and teach myself how to do things again. I was partially paralyzed for over 6 months, and no one knew. I’m a mom as well of 2 autistic kids combined with disabilities I have to tend to. It’s been super hard, but I’ve managed to stay afloat. If I’m being honest with myself and others, I feel the pain that once crippled me coming back and STRONG. I’m in pain every single day. I was supposed to go back to work this month, but I’d be kidding myself if I said I felt strong enough to do so.

For a long time, I was forced to do everything alone and support myself and my kids with very little help or complaints. This year will make 3 years having cancer, and I wish I could say there’s good news. I wish I could be positive all the time that I’ll be okay, but my reality is I’m not, and it’s okay to not be okay. After a lot of conversations, I am going to focus on my health and my children because God knows that’s all I have the strength for. I hope you find it in your heart to donate anything you can. My insurance was changed, so now I have to pay 2k plus Medicare premiums and pay for other medications. For the longest time, I got by “comfortably,” but I stress every single day. I just want peace of mind. Between regular bills, medical bills, and food, I feel like I’m drowning. I get help here and there, but I’m coming here to say I need all the help I can get from those who love and care for me. I’ve tried government assistance but a lot of programs make you jump through hopes to still deny you. If you cannot help, it is okay; please share with someone who may be able to help.

I’m so grateful for each and every person who’s been on this journey with me and hope you find it in your hearts to help me get by. A few years ago, I allowed myself to drown and almost didn’t make it. I don’t want that for me. I want to be here, I want to live, and I want to heal. God’s protection and strength have got me this far. He guided me to ask for help, and that is what I am doing. Thank you so much, and God bless you all.