Hi, I’m Sarah, and I’m facing the most difficult chapter of my life — a battle with Stage 4 Metastatic Melanoma, compounded by serious financial hardship. In just six months, my world has completely changed.
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My Story So Far
In December, I had a melanoma removed from my shoulder. By February, cancerous lymph nodes were found and surgically removed, and I began immunotherapy. Just last week, my doctors discovered two tumors on my liver, which means my melanoma has metastasized to a distant organ — now classified as Stage 4.
My medical team is currently determining whether the liver tumors can be surgically removed. In the meantime, I’m continuing immunotherapy and researching clinical trials as aggressively as I can.
When I was diagnosed, I was already in treatment for complex PTSD — care that I’ve had to pause. The physical and emotional toll has been overwhelming. Immunotherapy and the disease itself have caused side effects like:
- Severe fatigue
- Swelling (edema) in my hands and feet
- Dizziness and balance issues
- Cognitive impairment — making it hard to read, plan, focus, and even communicate clearly
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Why I Need Help
I’m a certified high school social studies teacher, and I absolutely love working with students. I had hoped to return to the classroom this fall — but right now, I don’t have the emotional, mental, or physical capacity to teach the way my students deserve.
Because I can’t work full time, I’m struggling to cover even the most basic necessities:
- Rent and housing costs
- Groceries and proper nutrition
- Prescription medications and co-pays
- Medical bills and transportation to treatment
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My Support System
I live alone — but I’m not entirely alone. My two cats, Theo and Pretzel, have been by my side through every step, offering love and motivation when I need it most. They’ve been a source of daily comfort and emotional strength.
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Budget Breakdown: Why $30,000?
This goal reflects my most urgent needs over the next year — including housing, food, medications, transportation to treatment, and medical expenses not fully covered by insurance. It also includes a small cushion for unexpected costs, which are common with cancer care.
Your support helps me focus on healing instead of survival.
Here's how the funds will be used:
- Housing and Rent: Safe, stable housing is essential while I’m immunocompromised and recovering.
- Food and Nutrition: A nutritious diet supports my immune system and healing.
- Phone, Internet, and Basic Living Expenses: These keep me connected, safe, and functioning day to day.
- Medical Costs: Includes copays, prescriptions, uncovered treatments, supplies, and supportive care.
- Transportation: Reliable transportation to appointments and treatment centers.
- Pet Care for Theo & Pretzel: Ensuring my emotional support companions stay healthy.
- Buffer for Emergencies: Cancer is unpredictable — this allows flexibility for medical travel, sudden housing changes, or complications.
This total of $30,000 will allow me to focus on healing — not how I’ll afford my next rent payment or co-pay.
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How You Can Help
If you’re in a position to donate, your support would make a real, immediate difference. Every contribution helps me stay in stable housing, continue treatment, and access the nutrition and care I need to keep fighting.
If you’re not able to give right now, sharing this campaign can be just as impactful.
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I never expected to be in this position, but I’m holding onto hope and doing everything I can to stay in the fight.
Thank you for reading, caring, and standing with me.
With deep gratitude,
Sarah
Organizer
Sarah Milford
Organizer
Athens, GA