Malissa Is Kicking Breast Cancer!

My cousin, Malissa Cheatom, was diagnosed with breast cancer the week before Thanksgiving. She will be unable to work for up to 20 weeks, following a double mastectomy in mid-January 2019 and pending clinical results and treatment.

As a working mom of two college-age children, the loss of income and inability to support her household and cover expenses during her recovery could be devastating. Those of us who know Malissa, have seen her touch and brighten so many lives with her kindness, compassion, faith and sense of humor. She has a million-watt smile and lights up any room she walks into.

Over the past several years, she has overcome the sudden loss of her father and battled her own significant health obstacles such as lupus, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Still, she has powered through each of these challenges with her grace, strength and determination to never to give up.

Malissa is a true survivor and when faced with steep challenges, she always fights back! Her spirit is strong and she's determined to beat breast cancer. Leading up to her double-mastectomy, she is completing tech certifications and kickboxing at Farrel's gym  where she's developed a network of amazing sister-friends. 

On behalf of her family and friends, I am opening this GoFundMe page to help support Malissa while she's recovering and unable to earn an income. We hope you will join us in showing your support—by giving her the same unconditional love, joy and pure happiness she brings to all of our lives! 

There are several ways you can help—please make a donation to help us cover her expenses. Gift cards to Amazon, Target, Sam’s Club, Wal-Mart, Hy-Vee and Fareway are also appreciated.

There will also be many opportunities to donate your time. Please email me or leave a note below to let us know how you'd like to help. We will be coordinating assistance after her surgery.

Lastly, send positive vibes and prayers for Malissa's complete healing and speedy recovery—and together let's kick cancer!