My name is Mark Thomas, and I am a teacher at Holley Central School District. I have worked in Holley for the past 20 years. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some of the very best educators over the years.

Recently, one of my colleagues and good friends was hospitalized for an array of medical and health issues that has caused her to be withheld from teaching. Melanie Richard is one of the most selfless and giving educators I’ve had the pleasure of working with. She left teaching in February and has been in-and-out of the hospital ever since, struggling to find answers to her conditions. She is going to be missing school and will be forced to remain home for the foreseeable future. Her medical condition is not improving and has really taken toll on her. Doctors are working to find answers, and until then, she will not be able to be with her students, who she cares deeply for.

She could benefit from financial assistance as she continues to find answers and to get healthy again. Please, consider helping her and her family as she continues treatment and looks to return to school.