My name is Melissa Peterson, and I began my battle with breast cancer in November 2023. It's been a long year and a half. I have had 5 surgeries due to the cancer, started having physical and emotional stress-induced seizures, and on June 23rd, I just had a two-level back fusion.

I have been unable to work due to all the surgeries and the chronic, excruciating pain.

I have applied and been denied disability twice now.

For those that know me well, it is very hard for me to ask for help in any fashion.

I now have 3 months of no lifting, bending, or twisting while this back fusion heals.

I am grateful that I have my husband, my mom, my best friend, and both my daughters to help me physically and emotionally through these trying times.

With that said, financially, I am struggling to pay my typical necessary bills and keep my head above water with medical bills. I have always been financially minded and strong, but after 18 months of not being able to bring in an income myself, I have exhausted all savings, etc.

Please, if you are able financially, anything helps, even well wishes and love if nothing else. Thank you in advance!