Missy's Journey: Overcoming Cancer

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176 donors
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$12,600 raised of $12K

Missy's Journey: Overcoming Cancer

Missy has spent nearly two decades shaping young lives as a beloved preschool teacher at the YMCA. Now, she and her family need the community’s support more than ever.

On May 17, 2024, Missy was diagnosed with stage four cervical cancer. The tumor on her cervix was the size of a tennis ball and had already spread to her lung, pelvis, and pelvic bone.

Despite this devastating news, Missy courageously began five weeks of chemotherapy and radiation — even continuing to work during treatment. After that, she underwent a stronger round of chemotherapy that led to hair loss. In October, she received incredible news: the tumors on her cervix, lungs, and pelvis were all gone. Praise the Lord!

However, in November, a PET scan revealed a small spot on her back. Doctors believed it would only need a few quick radiation treatments, but she didn’t receive them until mid-January. Her pain kept worsening, and by spring, it became so severe she could barely walk, forcing her to stop working — something she almost never did in her 19 years at the YMCA.

Missy has not worked since April 28. On May 1, she was hospitalized and has not been home since. In May, doctors discovered that the “small spot” was actually a large area affecting her spine, requiring urgent spinal fusion surgery. She is now in a rehab facility, unable to walk, and working hard each day to regain strength so she can return home to her family.

Through all of this, Missy’s husband Jack and Son Nicolas have stepped up tremendously, taking on extra responsibilities and providing constant love and support. This journey has been incredibly stressful for them as they hold everything together at home while supporting Missy’s fight.

Donations will help pay off mounting medical bills and cover living expenses while Missy focuses on healing and getting back on her feet.

Missy has shown unbelievable strength, faith, and determination throughout this fight. Let’s come together to support her and her family so she can return home and continue doing what she loves most.

Any amount, big or small, is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your generosity, love, and prayers.

Co-organizers3

Nicolas Ciminelli
Organizer
Youngstown, OH
John Ciminelli
Co-organizer
Nicholas Moliterno
Co-organizer
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