Help Support Mel in His Fight Against Splenic Angiosarcoma

Our dear friend and coworker Mel was given news no one ever expects to hear—he was diagnosed with splenic angiosarcoma, one of the rarest and most aggressive cancers known, affecting only 2 out of every 10 million people.

At the time, doctors told him he had only four months to live. In fact, he was minutes away from losing his life when his spleen ruptured. Thanks to the incredible team at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, surgeons were able to remove his spleen and give us more time with him. But because the rupture allowed cancer cells to spill into his abdomen, the risk of the disease returning was always there.

Since then, Mel has faced this battle with unbelievable courage. The cancer has returned three times and is now considered stage four and non-curable. Yet Mel has continued to fight, beating the odds every single day—now standing strong and longer than his original prognosis.

Mel is a man who has dedicated his life to service. He spent four years in the United States Marine Corps, where he worked in logistics and military police. After his time in the military, he continued his commitment to protecting others by serving as a police officer for the town of Ashland. His strength, discipline, and devotion to others are the same qualities he brings to his fight against cancer.

While his doctors continue treatment to give him more time, the reality is that the chemo he is on may one day stop working, and stronger, more expensive medications may be needed. Every treatment, every doctor’s visit, every round of chemo is a chance to extend the precious time he has with his family, friends, and loved ones.

Mel is more than a patient—he is a husband, father, coworker, and friend. His wife Mary and children, Darwin Jr. (22), Deja (22), Taliya (18), Kiyra (18), Daniel (18), and little Kayleigh (7), are his whole world. He continues to fight not only for himself, but for them.

We are asking for your support to help ease the financial burden of ongoing treatments, medical expenses, and the day-to-day challenges that come with a battle like this. Every donation—no matter the size—makes a difference and gives Mel more time to share laughs, hugs, and memories with the people who love him most.

If you are unable to give, please consider sharing this page so we can reach as many people as possible.

Thank you for standing with Mel in this fight. His strength is inspiring, and your kindness will help carry him forward.