Support Melissa's Fight Against Cancer

My sister-in-law, Melissa, was initially diagnosed with breast cancer when she was just 23 years old. After undergoing a painful year of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical treatment, she thought the worst of her cancer experience was behind her. Flash forward two years later, when at age 25, Melissa's cancer returned. She then opted for a double mastectomy, a heartbreakingly severe and invasive procedure, but one that Melissa thought would ensure that the cancer was finally gone for good. In 2016, at age 27, Melissa was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. The disease had spread to multiple organs, and the condition is terminal: there is no cure.

For more than three years, Melissa has been waging war against this horrible disease. She's undergone multiple rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, liver ablation, and many other grueling treatments. She's also been thriving in spite of her disease: running a small multimedia production company with her husband, Jimmy; spending quality time with her family, friends, and two cats; and even making a feature film, Ginger, which is based on her cancer battle and aims to help others who are facing the terrifying uncertainties that come along with such a diagnosis. 

In June 2019, Melissa's oncology team informed her that chemotherapy is no longer an effective treatment option. Now she's working overtime to identify clinical trials and other possible treatments that may be a good fit. Along with the unbelievable stress of this situation, Melissa and Jimmy are also dealing with the financial challenges that come along with medical bills, lost income, travel expenses related to exploring out-of-state treatment options, etc.  

Please consider donating to help my sister-in-law and brother as they navigate through this incredibly difficult time and seek out a treatment that will work for Melissa and give her an opportunity to continue living her extraordinary life. Every dollar raised is so incredibly appreciated. Thank you so much for your consideration and generosity, and please keep Melissa in your thoughts.