After almost 5 years of battling Ocular Melanoma, Stef recently received the heartbreaking news that her ocular melanoma has spread to her liver. This stage 4 cancer is not curable, but there are treatments that can help. Despite the diagnosis, Stef has faced every challenge with remarkable strength and determination.

After consulting with specialists at Froedtert and UW Madison, she has chosen to undergo Hepzato treatment at UW Madison—the first FDA-approved therapy specifically for metastatic ocular melanoma, delivering high-dose chemotherapy directly to the liver while minimizing exposure to the rest of the body. This treatment offers hope, but it is intense, requiring 6 rounds every 6-8 weeks and then overnight in the ICU. Each treatment is hard on her body, but her care team believes in the positive outcomes.

During this, Stef’s family is also facing another battle. Her mom has been recently diagnosed with stage 4 angiosarcoma and is undergoing chemotherapy at Froedtert, Stef and Matt have opened their home to her parents to provide them with love and support.

Through all of this, one thing remains constant—the incredible community surrounding Stef. The past 4 years, our community has come together for the annual Ocular Melanoma Walk, raising awareness and funds to fight this disease. This year, that walk carries even more meaning. It is a testament to the love, strength, and unwavering support that Stef has from family, friends, and so many who have been touched by her story.

With Stef traveling frequently for treatments, managing medical expenses, and balancing the needs of her family - travel costs, lodging, meals, and ongoing medical care will add up. Our goal is to ease this burden so Stef can focus on health, family, and making the most of time.

Thank you for standing with Stef, believing in her strength, and offering your support. Together, as a community, we can continue to lift her up and show her she is never alone in this fight.