Aloha. My mom, Michele Nahale was recently diagnosed with Choroidal/Uveal Melanoma (“UM”) which is a rare cancer of the eye, it’s a cancer that affects the uveal tracts in the eye; including the iris, ciliary body and choroid. My mom’s is specifically the choroid. While treatment could provide for the best outcome, leaving her cancer free, we’re still concerned for future metastasis, as about 50% of people diagnosed with UM will develop metastasis or spreading of cancer within 4 years of initial diagnosis. Metastasis occurs primarily in the liver (95%), and the lungs (4%). While they begin radiation, they can also needle biopsy the tumor which is a $1K procedure that is not covered by insurance, but provides my mom with the answer if she’s at a low or high risk of metastasis.

As you might be aware, my mom lives in Hawaii and unfortunately this treatment cannot be done on island, requiring treatment all the way in Philadelphia. We’re not the type of people to ask for help, but of course, us as a family know how scary the ‘c’ word, cancer is, and are all scared for her, not just treatment wise, but also financially; flights, hotel accommodations, and especially medical bills, they all add up, especially if she’s requiring future appointments, treatment, care, etc. We of course want her to fight and treat in anyway she can, as such, we’re not only reaching out for financial help, but also many prayers. My mom also won’t be able to work for a good amount of time.

Mahalo, we truly appreciate all the support we may receive.