My dear friend, Melissa Smith, was diagnosed in July 2024 with aggressive stage 4 lung cancer that has spread to her bones, liver, and brain. Since then, she has been fighting bravely — undergoing three different chemotherapy drug regimens back-to-back and enduring dozens of rounds of radiation for this inoperable cancer.

The cancer has caused severe bone pain, greatly affecting her mobility and quality of life. Melissa now requires constant care and specialized equipment just to manage daily life.

Update: She has now been moved to home hospice where she will be surrounded by her friends and family.

I am raising funds to purchase items and services directly for Melissa — not to give her cash — so she can stay comfortable, safe, and supported while she focuses on her health. To comply with disability benefit rules and other legal requirements, all donations will go into my account and be used strictly to pay for her needs and final expenses.

Your donations will be used for:

• Medical bills, treatments, and prescriptions

• Transportation to and from appointments

• Medical equipment (wheelchair, lift chair, oxygen supplies, etc.).

• Clothing, personal care needs, and household essentials

• Comfort items and quality-of-life improvements

-Final arrangements