Hi friends and family,

I'm putting this together on behalf of my friend Iaian Seals, whose mom, Michelle Seals, is facing a serious health crisis.

Michelle was first hospitalized on May 28 and hasn’t been able to work much since. She was readmitted on June 23 and is now navigating a long and complicated recovery. Part of her treatment has included a tracheotomy — which she’ll have for at least six months — and she’s scheduled to receive a feeding tube (PEG) later this week.

Her doctors believe she may have stage 3 cancer in her throat and on her left lymph node, though we’re still waiting on the biopsy results to confirm. If the diagnosis is confirmed, Michelle will likely begin chemo and radiation in the weeks ahead. She’s expected to be discharged to a rehab facility around the weekend of July 5, where she’ll begin learning how to care for her trach and feeding tube.

As you can imagine, the road ahead is overwhelming. Between hospital stays and ongoing treatments, Michelle has fallen behind on rent, car payments, and other essential expenses. Once she’s discharged, she’ll need help with housing, transportation, and navigating her new normal.

We’re hoping to rally support from friends, family, and kind-hearted people willing to lend a hand. Every bit helps — whether it’s a donation, sharing this page, or sending a message of encouragement. Your support will help give Michelle a chance to heal and stay connected to the people who matter most.

With gratitude,

Essence