Melinda's Pink Fund

I created this account for my dear sister Melinda. Here is her story:

Melinda was recently diagnosed with Paget's disease and Stage 3 Breast Cancer. Paget's disease is a rare form of breast cancer. Only 1-4% of women who have breast cancer have Paget's disease. The cancer is advanced and aggressive. We are currently waiting for results on whether the cancer has spread to any of her organs and brain.

Beginning June 6, she will be undergoing 4-5 months of chemotherapy, a mastectomy (possibly double mastectomy) and 3-6 weeks of radiation everyday (Monday - Friday). This is a 6-12 month process. She is struggling emotionally with the fact that she will be losing her long beautiful hair and breast(s) and with the fact that the cancer could remain. Although her oncologist says her condition at this time is treatable, we are all worried for her well being and preparing for her fight.

Due to the nature of Melinda's job as a Flight Attendant, she will be unable to work during this time and will have no income. Nevada does not have a state disability program like California which means it can take up to 5-6 months before she is approved through SSD plus there is a 3 month mandatory waiting period before she receives benefits. Most of you know that since Melinda was let go from her long term job of 13+ years at Allegiant Air she has suffered emotionally and financially. She has lost so much over the past two years, including medical insurance coverage. Although she is receiving Medicaid at this time, the out-of-pocket costs for her treatment, care and moving costs from Seattle, WA where she is currently based for work with Skywest Airlines back to her home in Nevada for treatment are more than what our family can handle at this time.

Melinda is a loving daughter, sister and loyal friend. She has always worked for everything in her life and this was not an easy thing for her or my family to do, but we would appreciate any financial contributions and most importantly any prayers and well wishes to help Melinda in her battle against breast cancer. Let's get her back to feeling and looking her best and doing what she loves to do-- travel.

Thank you all for your prayers and encouragement and to those who have donated on or outside of this page. We are forever grateful and committed to paying it forward when the opportunity arises. Melinda's journey has just begun... please check back for updates.