If you know Melissa Keenan, you know she is someone who pours into the lives of others. Melissa is a devoted wife to Jim of 25 years and a loving mom to four daughters. She works at a large high school as the Building Assessment Coordinator, helping oversee state testing, ensuring seniors meet graduation requirements, and supporting students and staff wherever she is needed. Melissa also serves faithfully in her church’s youth ministry, cooking for retreats, chaperoning camps, and investing in the lives of teenagers who look up to her. She was planning to return to youth camp this summer after taking last year off to celebrate her daughter Elisabeth’s wedding. She is a woman of deep faith and is known for her strength and wicked sense of humor, often bringing encouragement and laughter to others even in difficult moments.

Recently, Melissa and her family received news no one ever expects. At just 47 years old, after a routine colonoscopy, Melissa was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and scans revealed the cancer has spread extensively to her liver. Doctors initially believed there were two spots on her liver. Further imaging revealed something far more serious. While her liver is still functioning, it is currently filled with tumors, making surgery impossible at this time. Despite the shock of this diagnosis, there is hope and a treatment plan. On March 13, Melissa will undergo surgery to remove the tumor in her colon. During the same procedure, doctors plan to place a Hepatic Artery Infusion (HAI) pump, which delivers high-dose chemotherapy directly to the liver. The goal is to shrink the tumors enough that they may eventually become removable. The road ahead will involve major surgery, ongoing treatment, recovery time, and time away from work while Melissa focuses on healing.

This fundraiser will help support medical expenses not covered by insurance, treatment and travel costs, time away from work during surgery and recovery, and household expenses while she focuses on healing. Through it all, Melissa’s faith remains strong. She believes deeply in the power of prayer and in a God who still performs miracles. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 If you feel led, please consider donating or sharing this page so more people can stand with Melissa and her family in this fight. And above all, please pray.