PLEASE HELP A CANCER WARRIOR...SURVIVING BY FAITH

Let me tell you about this woman, MICHELLE T. BROWN…and why I’m asking you to help me support her as she faces a potentially devastating medical challenge along her journey.

Michelle is a native Philadelphian and a graduate of William Penn High School’s Class of ‘81. Since graduating from Community College, Michelle has worked in the human services field as a Licensed Practitioner Nurse (LPN), driver for CCT/SEPTA, and a paralegal. For over a decade, Michelle has also faithfully served the public at Holy Redeemer Health Systems as a medical assistant; as you can see, Michelle has spent most of her professional career serving others.

It was during her tenure at the Holy Redeemer Women’s Health Center that I first met Michelle at 6:30 a.m. when I called to secure a specialized physical therapist for my elderly mother. After speaking with her for a few minutes, she not only made it possible for me to begin this life-changing therapy for my mother during my summer vacation as a teacher, but she did it with so much professionalism, compassion, and empathy, that she almost immediately became part of our family. Once we met in person, we knew that we were kindred spirits, and this chance meeting has evolved into a “Sisterhood” that has blossomed into her becoming a member of my church family as well.

I must say, I’m not surprised to find out that professionally, my mom and I were not exactly a special case. I have watched Michelle serve her clientele and colleagues with the same professionalism and compassion that she has shown my mother and me. Even when I experienced two traumatic brain injuries, her eclectic knowledge of the medical field and her steadfast spiritual support never wavered, even in the midst of her own medical and life-threatening medical diagnosis.

So, when I heard that Michelle was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cervical cancer requiring immediate surgery and extensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments, I ventured to do all I could to support her no matter what. During this process, her infectious quick wit, and her inspiring positive attitude of claiming victory over her diagnosis, have not only touched me during my healing process but also amazed her medical providers; thus, confirming that what they do as their life’s work truly does make a positive difference in the lives of their patients regardless of the circumstance. I have witnessed and am so grateful for the outpouring of emotional and tangible support that Michelle has received thus far from everyone; including her colleagues; the physicians/staff from Holy Redeemer Hospital; members of our church; and her family, especially her daughter and “Companion in Christ”…but unfortunately, because she is unable to work at this time, these supports are not enough to sustain Michelle financially for the remainder of her treatments. THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP.

Michelle will need help to pay for medical and cost-of-living expenses, including medications, rent, utilities, meals, and transportation to and from treatments. Therefore, I’m inviting anyone who has the heart, the willingness, and the ability to please, financially support this wonderful woman of God; who shares with her heart...counsels with compassion…and lives to continue to serve in the victorious promises of our Lord Jesus Christ!

All donations are greatly appreciated and will be forwarded directly to MICHELLE T. BROWN. If you cannot give financially, your prayers and well wishes are just as valuable and welcome. THANK YOU for taking the time to read this tribute about MICHELLE T. BROWN who is more than just my “Friend”; she is truly my “Sister” in heart … prayer.… and Christ!