We are heartbroken to share that our sweet Melissa has passed away. She was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her. Melissa had a heart of gold, always ready to lend a helping hand, share a smile, or brighten someone’s day. With her positive outlook and zest for life, Melissa was diagnosed with scleroderma in her twenties and became a warrior in creating awareness and supporting so many others fighting this disease. She was living her life to the fullest when she tested positive for Covid and was admitted to the hospital 2 days later. She spent the next 18 days fighting so hard for her life. Her 2 beautiful children, Gabe and Mia, were with her when she took her last breath, as well as her parents, Margie and Jeff, sister Julie, and life partner Joe.

We are all struggling with the loss, and as friends and family come together to grieve, we are also facing the unexpected financial costs of the funeral.

In times like these, we hope to ease the burden on Melissa’s family so they can focus on the long road to healing rather than finances. That’s why we have started this GoFundMe—to honor Melissa’s memory by helping cover the funeral expenses and give her the respectful farewell she deserves. Any support you can provide, big or small, will go directly to these costs, allowing Melissa’s family to remember her and say goodbye without additional stress.

We appreciate any help you can offer and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness and support during this difficult time. Please feel free to share this page with others to help us reach our goal. Thank you.