
Support Nick's Stem Cell Transplant for Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Donation protected
We are reaching out to ask for your support for our friend and colleague, Courtney and her fiancé, Nick, who is facing refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. After months of chemotherapy and recovering from a previous hospitalization for lung inflammation related to the treatment he was receiving, Nick found out he did not have the expected response to treatment. Doctors have now recommended a stem cell transplant as the next critical step in Nick's fight to remission. Unfortunately, this procedure will require a lengthy hospitalization—lasting at least a month—and significant travel, as they will need to drive four hours to Mayo Clinic for this procedure. Unfortunately, PTO hours are scarce, and Courtney cannot access FMLA at this time due to their current relationship status.
As you can imagine, this is an incredibly challenging and emotional time for both of them. Nick has shown remarkable strength in the face of this persistent disease, but the journey ahead is still uncertain, and the financial burden is quickly adding up. The costs of the transplant, long-term hospital stay, travel expenses, and loss of income for both Courtney and Nick are overwhelming.
As if this burden weren’t already heavy enough, Courtney is also in her final semester of her accelerated nursing program, working tirelessly to complete her degree while working full time. Balancing the emotional and financial weight of this health crisis with the demands of her education is an overwhelming stressor, and she is doing so with remarkable strength and perseverance. However, the road ahead is long, and both she and Nick need all the support they can get.
How You Can Help:
We are creating this GoFundMe page to help ease the financial strain they will face over the next several months. Your donations will go directly toward:
• Hospitalization costs for the stem cell transplant and follow-up care
• Travel expenses for the long commute to and from the hospital
• Lodging for Courtney while staying close by during the hospital stay. A stem cell transplant will severely compromise Nick’s immune system, so Courtney will not be allowed to stay in the room with him.
• Everyday living expenses as they take time off work to focus on Nick's health and recovery
Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference and allow Nick to focus on what matters the most: healing. Even if you're unable to contribute financially, your emotional support, kind words, and sharing this page with your own network can provide a lifeline during this difficult journey.
Why This Matters:
For Courtney and Nick, this transplant represents the best chance at overcoming this aggressive disease and starting a new chapter. With your help, we can alleviate some of the stress that comes with this enormous challenge, allowing them to focus fully on recovery and healing. Let’s show Courtney and Nick that they are not alone in this fight. Your generosity will give them strength, hope, and a little peace of mind as they face this incredibly difficult road ahead.
We’re so grateful for any support you can offer—whether through donations or sharing this page with others.
On behalf of Courtney and Nick, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness and support.
With gratitude,
Michaela and Brenna
Organizer and beneficiary
Michaela Melberg
Organizer
Sioux Falls, SD
Courtney Lau
Beneficiary