Honoring the Legacy of Nicola Montes De Oca

Our mother was the true embodiment of what it meant to love unconditionally. Whether it was one of our friends, a member of the local homeless shelter, or even random strangers she met on her adventures, she loved everyone endlessly and effortlessly. Our mum had so much more love to give. Losing our mother to something no one had any control over will forever be one of the hardest things to accept.

In the summer of 2019, our mum was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive, and terminal cancer called mucosal melanoma. This was the first time our family had directly experienced any form of cancer, but mum battled. After the treatments started and the dust had settled, it almost felt like the cancer wasn't there. Mum didn't let her diagnosis prevent giving the love she had to give. She continued to live her life the way she always had.

Despite her illness, our mother was determined to find a new way to show love. She started a weekly Zoom meeting to support those facing the same challenges she did. The group consisted of people fighting mucosal melanoma around the world. This group's purpose was to provide support and comfort for those dealing with the uncertainty that comes with this illness.

As time went on and the treatments changed, we noticed just how aggressive the cancer was. On September 2nd, 2022, our lives as we knew them changed forever. Our mother passed away peacefully and painlessly, surrounded by her family.

We are raising funds to help alleviate the costs associated with the medical expenses incurred during this challenging time. Once those needs are met, the remaining funds will be used to share our mum’s legacy by contributing to a college fund for Lily, student ministries at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Lightshine Church, and mucosal melanoma research.

Thank you.