Hello, my name is Melissa. I am a dedicated nurse serving a remote community, providing care to our First Nations People.

I am a breast cancer survivor, but the treatment that saved my life has come with a heavy price: I now live with lymphoedema in my left arm.

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that severely impacts quality of life. It causes limb swelling and disrupts normal bodily functions due to fluid accumulation beneath the surface.

Managing this condition is a near-full-time endeavor. Without proper management, the swelling leads to irreversible damage which is debilitating. Wearing compression garments throughout the day is the most effective way to control it.

As a nurse, strict infection control makes it impossible to wear vital garments consistently. I've spent countless hours unsupported, worsening my condition and jeopardising my ability to continue nursing. The thought of leaving my profession and my commitment to serving Indigenous communities is heartbreaking.

Aside from nursing, my quality of life is significantly affected by this condition. Its progression will only continue to diminish this quality.

I now have a significant opportunity: a surgical procedure that could help alleviate the progression of my lymphoedema. This surgery could enable my body to better manage the fluid in my arm, reduce my reliance on compression garments, and ultimately extend my nursing career.

This surgery is a medical procedure and a significant investment in my future. Your generous support can turn this crucial surgery into a reality, enabling me to continue nursing.

This surgery is not available through the public health system, and the funds raised will support the surgery and private hospital fees, which at a minimum will be $48,000 with no complications.

Hearfelt gratitude in advance of your support.