Melissa's Medical and Family Care

On a day when she SHOULD have been celebrating her Wedding Anniversary with her husband -  Saturday, November 11th Melissa Schermerhorn (Franco), my friend of nearly 30 years (right) was admitted to the hospital and was discovered to be the host of a Brain Tumor the size of a walnut.  She remains there now, awaiting news on a transfer to Boston for surgery to ensure its removal.

We do not know much more than that at this stage... other than this tumor NEEDS to come out - and SOON - but what we DO know is that an ordeal like this comes at GREAT expense... not only for the actual surgery and subsequent medical treatment and recovery, but for travel, accomodations and meals, as well as child care and the bills that DON'T stop simply because your world as you know it has changed in a breath.  To add further insult - the indefinite loss of wages, and things NOT covered by insurance can have crippling effects on anyones financial status.

What we DO know about Melissa is that she is a most devoted Mother to her 5 children (ages 18 mos - 19 years), and a loving and supportive Wife.  She is an artist and an entrepreneur, a faith driven, talented ray of light who is as absolutely beautiful inside as she is outside.  She would (and has) done anything for anyone.
She is a FIGHTER... even when the fight ahead is uncertain.
We want to get ahead of this freight train - and begin a campaign to help Melissa, and help her Family to weather this challenge and all that lies ahead.  
 Nothing is too small, or insignificant to help make a difference in easing the burdens that will come from surgery and recovery for our beautiful Friend.

** Friends - if you happen to be local to Melissa (I am not) - and may be able to offer an afternoon of child care, a prepared meal for the family, or just a smiling face, please do so. **