I'm Sophie. My dear friend and mentor, Mel, passed away this past weekend.

Her memorial service is this Saturday, 5 1/2 hours away. That means gas, hotel, and a meal or two.

The problem is that I'm a poor graduate student and can't afford the trip.

Mel meant the world to me, and I want to be there for her family and to say goodbye.

Please help. Any funds not used will be donated to Alzheimer's research in her name.

Thank you so much!