Many of you know Debbie and Bob Wright and most know that Bob recently faced a medical crisis. But let me introduce you to Bob's daughter, Melody.

Melody Wright is 33 years old but not your normal millennial. She is a US Army veteran, and former EMT, firefighter and police officer.  She decided to take time off with a goal of visiting every national park in the US and to compete in endurance runs along the way.  She purchased an RV and she and her 2 dogs began the journey.  Originally from the pacific northwest,  her journey led her to Florida in mid- November.  With the intent to visit the Everglades and other national parks in Florida, she was to include a visit to see her father, Bob Wright, and stay through the Thanksgiving holiday.  However, her visit has turned into months after finding out her dad was sick.  Her dad had blood cancer (MDS) and needed to have a bone marrow transplant.  Without hesitation, Melody volunteered to be tested to see if she was a match...and she was an excellent match. Bob’s transplant took place on February 15th with Melody at his side.  Her cells are now thriving in their new home. She has been with him, along with Debbie the entire time, only to take time out to work odd jobs and training for her upcoming runs. 

Melody is an Ultra runner. Her next challenge is the Triple Crown of 200's. She hasn’t been able to train as she normally would because Florida doesn’t have the terrain or elevation needed. 

Melody will be leaving Florida at the end of March heading to Tahoe to continue her journey and to train for this next run; the first of three 200- mile endurance runs, that will take place in June. August and October.

Her 3-week visit turned into a 4-month journey. During that time Mel has also filled the role as backup caregiver for her Dad. A backup caregiver was a requirement to proceed with the transplant so her decision to put her life on hold and stay was a definite answer to prayer.

After she leaves, Debbie will need to hire an alternate backup caregiver as Bob will continue to need 24/7 care until further notice.

Before Melody started her National Parks journey, she did a lot of preparation. Knowing her budget, she arranged employment in advance at the parks so that she would not only have a minimal income but more importantly she would be able to park her RV at the parks rent-free. Since she’s been in Florida her well-planned budget has taken a significant hit. Most of her savings has gone towards lot rent for the RV. She has picked up dog walking gigs from the Rover app as well as doing InstaCart. Lately it’s been DoorDash, Uber Eats etc to help with living expenses.

anything that you are able to share to help support this family through this ordeal is so very appreciated!