Supporting Melanie

Our daughter, Melanie-Anne Chappell, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2007. She underwent surgery to reduce the size of the mass in order to relieve the pressure on her brain, but it was not possible to remove it completely. Subsequently, Melanie underwent extensive and prolonged chemotherapy and radiation treatments, which resulted in long-term side effects that impact her daily life. Melanie is still fighting hard every day, but the real costs are high, in every way, and thus she is no longer able to function in her part-time position. Without this income she is struggling to cover the monthly rent on her small, one-bedroom apartment, despite the benefits received from her permanent disability provider.

Melanie has already pared back on any extra's in her budget. She does not have access to cable TV or Internet, due to the cost. She does however require her cell phone, which is not only used as a phone - it is also her reminder system of her numerous appointments, her complex medication schedule, and anything else that she could otherwise overlook. Her cell phone is a necessity.

When Melanie is feeling well, she uses her time volunteering at a local non-profit organization, coaching individuals and families living with the challenges of poverty. This work is very important to her, and has an impact both in her local community and beyond.

We are very proud of our daughter, and although Melanie is part of a caring community and we are helping her out wherever possible, she is barely able to hold on to her apartment. Please give consideration to helping her maintain her housing so she can continue to make her contributions to our world through her life and volunteer work.

In anticipation, and with hope in your generosity ...
Many thanks.