Help Melissa Fight Cancer

Melissa U'Ren (age 40) was recently diagnosed with high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma. It is a rare form of an aggressive cancer. Doctors believe it developed within weeks, started in the colon and traveled to her liver. The discovery was ultimately made during what was expected to be a routine gallbladder removal surgery.

Her team of doctors at UW Madison have decided the best treatment will be chemotherapy. She has completed her first two rounds of chemo (three, intense daily doses of IV chemotherapy). She will have to have scans to be sure the chemo treatments are shrinking the tumors and the cancer is not continuing to spread to other parts of the body. Chemo will be administered every 21 days.

Melissa is so much more than her diagnosis. She is a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a second mom, a cousin, a friend and a doggie mom. She's an avid fan of football and all things Green Bay Packers, and loves the adventure of the outdoors.

Throughout all of this, she will be unable to work and her medical bills are accumulating. We want Melissa to focus 100% on her health and not have to worry about financial burdens. All funds raised will go directly to Melissa and used for medical and travel costs to/from Madison, as well as monthly housing expenses. A donation would be greatly appreciated but never expected. Prayers and positive thoughts are more than welcome as well.

We believe that words of kindness also go a long way. If you feel like writing a beautiful note to her of encouragement - you can mail them to her sister Hollie U'ren 1560 Grant St. Fennimore, WI 53809, and she will share all of them with Melissa.

For other ways to help, visit her benefit on Facebook: Melissa URen Benefit at BDs Eagle Nest Aug 28