Support Heather's Battle Against Breast Cancer

Michele Olesen is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Heather Busey.

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Help Heather Fight Breast Cancer

If you’ve ever stopped by Hollywood Beach’s Riptide Tiki Bar, you might have met Heather. She’s the always smiling, goofball behind the bar. For over ten years, she’s been mixing drinks and mixing up fun for tourists and locals alike—always with her signature charm, authenticity, and infectious laugh.

Meet Heather: A True Original

Heather is a bartender, a mom, and a wife who finds joy in the little things. Her idea of a perfect day might be thrift-store hunting for the quirkiest finds with her 13-year-old son, Tyler, then heading out for a family adventure at Disney or Universal Studios. She’s the one who makes ordinary moments unforgettable—bad karaoke nights, spontaneous boardwalk strolls, and even rainy days that somehow still feel warm and joyful when spent with her.

She’s built a life filled with love and laughter on a bartender’s wage, valuing experiences over possessions. But while her life has been rich in memories, financial security has never been a luxury her family could afford.

The Fight No One Sees Coming

Earlier this year, life threw Heather a curveball—she was diagnosed with stage 2 metastatic breast cancer. Now, she’s in the thick of 12 grueling rounds of chemotherapy, with surgery and radiation still ahead. Even when the treatments leave her exhausted and her wig itches like no other, Heather still shows up for her regulars at Riptide. She’s determined to keep her family’s spirits high, even as the mounting bills threaten their stability.

The financial toll is real:

The high cost of chemotherapy and medical appointments
The expense of wigs and other treatment-related needs
Unexpected car repairs on the family’s only vehicle—her lifeline to treatment
Lost wages due to health struggles and countless medical appointments
Additional medical expenses, as her husband, Delon, recently battled diverticulitis

How You Can Make a Difference

Heather has spent her life bringing joy to others—now, she needs us to step in. We’re asking for your support to help cover medical and living expenses, giving her the breathing room she needs to focus on her fight. Here’s how you can help:

1. Donate – Every dollar eases the financial burden. Whether it’s $5 or $100, your generosity makes a difference.

2. Share This Page – Spread Heather’s story on social media, in your community, and with anyone who might be moved by her journey.

3. Get Screened – Heather’s battle is a reminder that early detection saves lives. Get your yearly exams, check your lumps and bumps, and encourage your loved ones to do the same.

4. Leave a Memory – Share your favorite Heather moment from Riptide—a cheesy joke, a hilarious mix-up, or just a time she made you smile. Your words of support mean more than you know.

Thank you for standing with Heather during this tough time. Your support gives her the fighting chance to get back behind that tiki bar, to make more memories with her sweet little family, and to keep smiling through it all.