Emily is a 32-year-old mom to 11-year-old Liam, a daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend to many. She was diagnosed with malignant melanoma in August of 2022. At that time, she began monthly immunotherapy sessions to help shrink the tumors found in her lymph nodes. She had surgery in March of this year to remove those lymph nodes. However, after having experienced severe headaches and vomiting for several days, Emily went to the Emergency Room and her CT scan results showed a brain tumor. She was sent by ambulance to St. Joseph’s hospital in Tampa, where the tumor was removed, and sent to pathology to determine whether it was the result of the melanoma having metastasized to her brain, or something entirely different. Last Friday (December 1st), when Emily met with her oncologist, he confirmed the tumor was metastatic melanoma.

The next step for Emily is to begin radiation, which will kill any cancer cells left behind following the tumor removal. She will also begin targeted gene therapy in the form of the oral medications Braftovi and Mektovi. For this we are praying for no side effects and good response to the treatment. She will follow up with body scans every few months to make certain the treatment plan is doing its job of keeping the cancer at bay. Additionally, Emily plans to meet with a nutritionist and other doctors. It is her hope that getting her body in optimal condition through clean eating will boost her immune system and increase her ability to tolerate these treatments.

Several years ago, Emily started a cleaning business, building her clientele through dedication and a strong work ethic. As a single mom, it has allowed her to work around Liam’s schedule. (Liam’s dad was in a fatal traffic accident when he was two years old). However, the culmination of a cancer diagnosis and surgery, followed by 14 months of immunotherapy, has left Emily physically unable to work. Her family and friends have been a tremendous support system, helping with Liam when needed, as well as financially when possible. With her recent diagnosis of metastatic brain cancer, she will face additional financial and physical challenges. Because her treatment targets the brain, she will be unable to drive for some time. She will incur the expenses of lifelong medication costs, as well as normal monthly living expenses, all while navigating life with Liam. Our family will continue doing all we can to help. Because of this, we humbly ask you to consider donating to help ease some of the financial strain she will face.

We know God is our Healer and we are praying for a miracle for this precious mother, daughter, sister, cousin, and friend. If you are unable to make a monetary donation, we ask that you remember Emily in your prayers. Emily has the greatest faith of anyone I know. While in the recovery room after brain surgery, Emily was telling people “Jesus loves you.” While in the neuro ICU, her therapists asked her if she had any questions, to which she replied, “Yes. Do you know Jesus?” It speaks so much of her character that even during this trial, Emily remains steadfast in her faith, is wanting to see God move in the hearts of others and trusts He will intervene and make her whole.

Thank you for your donations and prayers.