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Help the Scharlach's Trump Cancer


In January 2013, Maryellen Scharlach received a daunting diagnosis that would turn the young family's world upside down overnight. The doting mother of three learned that she had stage 4 MultiformeGlioblastoma—a rapidly growing form of brain cancer with a very poor prognosis.  A team of very skilled health care professionals were able to remove only 80% of the massive tumor, and the malignancy of this particular cancer made it extremely likely that it would grow back. 

The family tried to piece their lives back together after the tragic incident, while juggling medical bills and grappling with the impending, potential loss of a loved one.  Maryellen underwent radiation and chemo therapies which appeared to be successful despite the odds. Unfortunately, the cancer came back full-force in September 2015—just weeks after the family had purchased their first home to accommodate their growing children. Doctors performed a riskier procedure to save Maryellen but there were dire consequences including substantial memory loss and visual field deficiencies. She lost her peripheral vision which made it difficult to perform regular activities, such as driving. More and more responsibility fell on the shoulders of her husband Mike Scharlach, who worked diligently to pay for the costly surgeries and their mortgage, but things were only becoming more difficult. 

In January 2016, doctors discovered an adenoma tumor in Mike's adrenal glands and subsequently diagnosed him with Cushing's disease. Only a week later, Mike was laid off from his job as a program manager, cutting off the source of income that was holding the family together during the hard times. He was hospitalized with a staph infection and nearly lost his leg. The bad news did not end there for the Scharlachs. In February, Maryellen was rushed to the hospital via helicopter for sudden brain swelling; doctors performed yet another surgery to insert a fluid retention brain shunt. Along with their eldest son's debilitating allergies, the Scharlach's medical bills skyrocketed.  Cobra Coverage from Mike's former employer helped, however the family still owes more than $2000 for health insurance each month. Cobra will only offer assistance for the duration of one year, and the Scharlachs are wondering how they will deal with it all. 

The Scharlach's are not the kind of people to ask for assistance from family members or friends, but since they are very dear to us, we are reaching out on their behalf. They greatly appreciate the gesture, and we appreciate them for everything they have done for us. We need to ensure that the family of five does not end up homeless and can continue to pay for vital medical expenses. Any contribution will help the Scharlach's rebuild their life, and we will all be very grateful for your generosity. Regardless of whether or not you can contribute financially, please keep the Scharlach family in your prayers.
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Donations 

  • Jill Kumpf
    • $50 
    • 7 yrs
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Organizer and beneficiary

Mona Zaini
Organizer
Cherry Hill Township, NJ
Maryellen Scharlach
Beneficiary

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