Melissa Byrd's Medical Expenses

On Monday July 24, 2023 Melissa began to have difficulty breathing and went to the Emergency Room. After several tests and ultrasounds they found a mass on her liver. They scheduled her outpatient biopsy and while inside they found several tumors on her diaphragm and then scheduled further CT scans and testing, which eventually revealed that the cause of the cancer was coming from her Ovary.

Our Sweet Friend Melissa was diagnosed with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer which has also spread to her diaphragm. She will have a PET SCAN soon to see if there any other areas of cancer. She will start the battle of Chemotherapy on Thursday 8/24/23.

Melissa is faced with substantial out of pocket cost and deductibles, as well as lots of missed work due to upcoming treatments. When I first asked Melissa about fundraising, she immediately said No, I can’t ask my friends for money, I feel bad.. it's not their responsibility… This is emblematic of who Melissa is- always thinking of others and helping others and asking for nothing in return. She prioritizes her family, friends and community with no exceptions. Even with her recent diagnosis she is still focused on helping others daily, and this is a true testament to the kind and beautiful human she is… To know Melissa is to Love Melissa!

We ask for your thoughts, prayers, and positive energy to surround Melissa and her loved ones during this time of uncertainty. Many have asked what they can do to help, If at all able, any financial contribution will make a meaningful impact.

UPDATE 10/1/23 HAPPY BIRTHDAY MELISSA!

For those of you praying for and following Melissa’s journey, I just wanted to say thank you so much! The love and support of friends and family is what gets each of us through hard times.

I wanted to share an update on Melissa. She has had 2 chemotherapy sessions so far. Her third will be Oct 5th and then scans. If it’s shrunk, then 3 more chemo sessions. If not, no clue as to plan B.

Thank you to ALL- We LOVE YOU MELISSA!!!

Update - Jan 27th 2024

Melissa started her clinical trial at MD Anderson in Houston on December 18th for her diagnosis of stage 4 peritoneal clear cell carcinoma. She has been traveling back and forth to Houston several times a month for treatment and scans. This takes a toll on her body and leaves her with a huge financial burden. With it being a new year, she has new deductibles.

Melissa is a warrior! She’s still fighting and continues to push forward. I want to thank each of you who have donated and ask that you continue to pray for our sweet Melissa. She still has a long way to go and needs some support. Thank you.

On a positive note, Melissa and Squeak have set a date to get married on February 24, 2024! Being that they are both seasoned adults, in lieu of gifts, please feel free to donate to their medical or honeymoon fund.