Melissa (“Mel” to everyone who loves her) has always been strong, beautiful (inside and out), hilarious, and a little bit adventurous in the best way.

Over the years, Mel has hiked her way through national parks across the U.S. and explored so many trails internationally. Hiking is one of the things she loves to do most.

At home, she deeply loves her animals. Her dog Goose is a constant companion, and her cats are a big part of her daily life. They’re her comfort, her routine, and her joy.

In a matter of days this past March, everything changed. Mel developed a severe infection after returning home from vacation that rapidly turned into a life-threatening medical crisis. She spent weeks fighting for her life in the ICU, undergoing multiple emergency surgeries and relying on life support to survive. There were so many moments when her outcome was uncertain, and her doctors were preparing our family for the worst.

Against overwhelming odds, she survived.

We are beyond grateful, and deeply thankful for the incredible medical care that helped save her life. But her survival has come at an unimaginable cost.

Due to the severity of her illness, Mel is now facing multiple amputations. The road ahead will be long, painful, and uncertain - filled with surgeries, rehabilitation, and the challenge of learning to navigate the world in a completely new way.

At her core, Mel is still Mel - resilient, strong, and determined to find her way forward. She wants to walk her dog again. She wants her independence back. And one day, she wants to hike again.

We are raising funds to support Mel through this life-altering transition. We’re looking for support to help cover:

• Extensive medical and surgical expenses

• Acute rehabilitation and physical therapy

• Prosthetics and adaptive equipment needed for mobility

Prosthetics that allow for an active lifestyle are often not fully covered by insurance, but they could make it possible for Mel to return to the outdoors.

Any support, whether through a donation or by sharing her story, will help give her the care and tools she needs to rebuild her life. And most importantly, it will help give her the chance to regain her autonomy and work toward everything the future has in store for her.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of Mel’s journey forward.

With so much gratitude,

The Matonti Family