Support Melissa Swoap's Cremation Services (complete)

Campaign Title: Help Us Honor Melissa Swoap: Cremation and Memorial Services

Introduction:

We are raising funds to give Melissa Swoap a respectful farewell. She passed away on August 30, 2024, at 3:45 AM at The Ted & Diane Brandley House in Summerfield. Melissa was not just a mother; she was a father, a best friend, and my greatest support. Your contributions will help cover the costs of her cremation, a private family goodbye, and a celebration of life service. Any additional funds will assist our family during this difficult time.

Milestones:

1. Milestone 1: Direct Cremation - $1,095 to $1,395

○ Goal: $1,095 (Basic Cardboard Alternative Container)

○ Explanation: This milestone will cover the basic direct cremation services, including professional services, transfer, refrigeration, and cremation with a basic cardboard alternative container. If additional funds are raised, we can upgrade to a wooden container for $1,395.

2. Milestone 2: Private Family Goodbye with Simple Cremation - $2,195

○ Goal: $2,195

○ Explanation: This will allow for a small, private family goodbye with a simple cremation service. This includes professional services, a 30-minute viewing with up to 10 people, and the basic cremation process.

3. Milestone 3: Cremation with Viewing and Celebration of Life - $3,495

○ Goal: $3,495

○ Explanation: This milestone will enable a more comprehensive service, including embalming, preparation of remains, and a full viewing and celebration of life service.

Additional Support:

Any funds raised beyond these milestones will go toward supporting our family as we cope with this loss.

Her Journey:

Melissa’s health struggles began in 2011, with mysterious symptoms that doctors could not diagnose. Despite her efforts, she lost her job, car, and home, and was forced to fight for disability benefits. The process was long and grueling, made worse by mishandled legal representation. Yet, through it all, she never gave up. She was finally diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2017, after years of being misdiagnosed and dismissed by doctors. By then, the cancer had already spread, and she faced an uphill battle that lasted the rest of her life.

Her Battle:

Melissa underwent surgery and numerous rounds of chemotherapy, fighting every step of the way. She participated in clinical trials and tried every treatment available to her. Despite the side effects and immense pain, she remained hopeful and focused on her quality of life. Even as her condition worsened with increasing liver metastases and pulmonary nodules, she chose to prioritize time with her loved ones over more aggressive treatments.

Our Request:

Melissa was a single mother who raised me on her own until she could no longer work. When she became too ill to care for herself, I stepped up to take care of her. Now, I’m asking for your support to give her the farewell she deserves. The funds raised will go towards her funeral expenses, outstanding medical bills, and other costs associated with her passing.

Conclusion:

Any contribution, no matter how small, will be deeply appreciated. My mother was a fighter, a survivor, and a beacon of strength for those who knew her. Your support will help me honor her memory in the way she deserves and ensure that her legacy lives on. Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this difficult time.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Swoap Family.

Her Battle over 12 years