Melissa Foti, my friend of 35 years, is facing the fight of her life. In April, she was misdiagnosed with an infection, but it soon became clear she was battling an aggressive, still unidentifiable stage 4 cancer that has spread to her spine and lumbar area. Since her initial biopsy just two weeks ago, her kidney function has dropped to 25%, and she is enduring crippling pain from the multiple sarcomas in her spine. She has been in the hospital since Thursday and he release date gets pushed back with each setback. Melissa has always been a fighter and a tireless advocate for animal rescue, never hesitating to help anyone in need. Now, she needs our help more than ever.

Melissa has no family left in New Jersey, so her brother took a leave from his job in Kentucky to be by her side. He is caring for her home, pets, and managing endless appointments and scans, all while trying to keep her spirits up with their grandmother’s favorite recipes.

Melissa has been in the hospital since Thursday and will not be able to work at all as she begins chemo and radiation. Immediate help is needed to cover her medical bills and living expenses, as Temporary Disability will take weeks to begin. Any support will help ease the burden so Melissa and her brother can focus on her treatment and recovery.