Support Michelle's Fight Against Bone Marrow Cancer

Let’s Rally Behind Michelle’s Fight Against Bone Marrow Cancer

For decades, Michelle Merkin has touched countless lives through her work with children and horses, teaching young riders not just about horsemanship, but about courage, determination, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. Now, this fiercely independent woman needs our community’s support as she faces her biggest challenge yet: a battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a form of bone marrow cancer that can lead to leukemia.

The good news is that Michelle’s condition is treatable through a bone marrow transplant. Her transplant doctor is optimistic, citing an 80-90% chance of full recovery, thanks to Michelle’s relatively young age, fitness, and a lifetime of healthy choices. However, while her health insurance will cover the medical procedure and housing near Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), it won’t cover a crucial component: the required 24-hour care she’ll need during the critical 70+ day recovery period.

The bone marrow transplant process is intense. Doctors will eliminate Michelle’s immune system through chemotherapy, then introduce new immune system cells. This requires a month-long hospital stay, followed by 70+ days in a sterile environment with round-the-clock supervision. During this delicate time, Michelle can’t be left alone—not even for an hour. Various complications can arise as her body adjusts to the new bone marrow, and immediate response to any issues is crucial.

OHSU won’t proceed with the transplant unless continuous care is in place, but the insurance companies consider this essential care “non-medical” and won’t cover it. Coordinating 24/7 coverage over two months is both logistically and financially overwhelming. This is the obstacle standing between Michelle and her chance at a cure.

Michelle has spent her life building others up, teaching children to be brave in the saddle and confident in themselves. She’s the last person who would ask for help, but now she’s facing a mountain she can’t climb alone. Her transplant is scheduled for March 25, so time is of the essence.

Every dollar contributed will go directly towards covering the cost of her essential post-transplant care. Your support isn’t just helping Michelle with medical expenses—it’s giving Michelle the fighting chance she deserves. Let’s rally around Michelle and show her the same strength and support she’s shown others throughout her life. Whether you can contribute financially, share this campaign, or offer your thoughts and prayers, every form of support matters.

Please share this campaign with your networks. Every share could reach someone who might be able to help. Together we can help, Michelle beat MDS and return to the life and work that she loves.

All donations will go directly toward covering the cost of Michelle’s required 24/7 post-transplant care. Any funds received beyond care costs will be used for additional medical and recovery-related expenses.