Campaign Story

A Life of Courage and Love

Our dear friend Mereana Tango Nickelchok lived a life defined by courage, faith, and love. In July 2005, she was diagnosed with stage 4 esthesio neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Doctors gave her just 12 months to live. Instead, Mereana defied the odds for 20 years, enduring 8 major neurosurgeries, countless treatments, and ongoing challenges with vision, hearing, and fatigue.

Through it all, she radiated love and grace. She sang in choirs, served in her community, and poured her heart into her family. She and Ryan were even blessed with their miracle daughter, Eva, after doctors said it would be impossible.

On August 25, 2025, Mereana’s fight came to an end. She has gone home, leaving behind Ryan and Eva, and a community who loved her deeply.

Why We’re Asking for Help

Mereana’s long illness placed enormous financial strain on the family. Despite Ryan’s dedication and years of hard work, the combination of:

• ongoing medical expenses not fully covered by insurance,

• the absence of life insurance (unavailable for over 20 years due to her condition),

• job loss from redundancy, and

• the cost of Mereana’s funeral and burial,

has left Ryan and Eva facing serious financial hardship. On top of their grief, they are at risk of losing their home.

How You Can Make a Difference

Ryan stood by Mereana with unwavering love for two decades. Now it’s our turn to stand with Ryan and Eva.

• Please consider making a donation — no gift is too small.

• If you cannot give, you can still help by sharing this page with others who knew and loved Mereana, or who may be moved by her story.

• Together, as a community, we can make sure Ryan and Eva have the stability they need in this difficult time.

On behalf of Ryan and Eva, thank you for every prayer, message, and contribution. Your support will help them through this most difficult time and ensure that Mereana’s legacy of love continues.

With gratitude,

Friends of the Nickelchok family