Can you help me make my step-mom’s day?
In December 2012, at the age of 40, my step-mom (Melody) was diagnosed with colorectal cancer after finding a tumor during a colonoscopy. The following day the doctors removed the tumor and a month later she began chemotherapy. Even though she was finally in remission, the debilitating pain continued. She had a few surgeries to try and solve the pain or fix minor problems from the first surgery, but the pain continued. In November 2013, the pain seemed to change and doctors found two new spots of cancer (one where the first spot had been and another on her pelvic bone) and she began radiation. In February 2014, she was admitted to the hospital for her pain and nausea. During this stay, it was discovered that the radiation did get rid of the cancer on her bone, but additional spots on her liver and small intestine were discovered. She will now undergo chemotherapy again and take things one day at a time.
In December 2012, at the age of 40, my step-mom (Melody) was diagnosed with colorectal cancer after finding a tumor during a colonoscopy. The following day the doctors removed the tumor and a month later she began chemotherapy. Even though she was finally in remission, the debilitating pain continued. She had a few surgeries to try and solve the pain or fix minor problems from the first surgery, but the pain continued. In November 2013, the pain seemed to change and doctors found two new spots of cancer (one where the first spot had been and another on her pelvic bone) and she began radiation. In February 2014, she was admitted to the hospital for her pain and nausea. During this stay, it was discovered that the radiation did get rid of the cancer on her bone, but additional spots on her liver and small intestine were discovered. She will now undergo chemotherapy again and take things one day at a time.
Melody loves cards and has always enjoyed them. During the week of Thanksgiving, I began collecting get-well cards for her. I rented a PO BOX and began sharing the address with everyone! She has received many cards, letters, and packages from all over the world! It has been very powerful knowing that many people are praying and thinking of her and taking the time to send her something! She opens a few each day and I cannot put into words how much the cards allow her to "forget" her pain for those few moments and just smile. She looks forward to opening her cards each day, reading the stories and words of encouragement, seeing where each card comes from and which card someone took the time to pick out (or make) just for her. Over the last few months, I have noticed that the cards have greatly impacted my entire family – we all feel the love and support and greatly appreciate everyone who has sent a card. I have cried at the post office on more than one occasion! Each card is a special gift and truly makes a difference in our lives!
Melody has received about 950 cards, letters, packages, and autographs from 16 different countries and 46 states! Most of the responses have been through Facebook, word of mouth, and others sharing about my card drive. I have been amazed at the support from businesses and organizations – some that have bought cards from a store and had many employees sign it or have read my request and sent packages of goodies. Each business/organization that has sent Melody a card has been “liked” by her page so that others can know how amazing these places are. She’s even received support from some famous people – like Chef Emeril Lagasse, Bob Barker, Brad Paisley, Florence Henderson, Israel Houghton, Arnold Palmer, Jodi Piccolt, Governor Rick Snyder, Matt Giraud, Charlie Daniels, Sarah McLachlan, and Gary Sinese!
When asked what Melody’s “dream card” would be, she says it would be to receive a card from Yanni (which I have not been able to get just yet). She loves all of the cards she’s received and appreciates anyone that takes the time to do so.
Shortly after the card drive began, I created a page on Facebook so that anyone could follow her journey to continue supporting her and to see pictures of some of the cards she has received!https://www.facebook.com/Melodyscarddrive
Will you also send Melody a card? Will you help me spread the word about my mission and keep the drive going?
When asked what Melody’s “dream card” would be, she says it would be to receive a card from Yanni (which I have not been able to get just yet). She loves all of the cards she’s received and appreciates anyone that takes the time to do so.
Shortly after the card drive began, I created a page on Facebook so that anyone could follow her journey to continue supporting her and to see pictures of some of the cards she has received!https://www.facebook.com/Melodyscarddrive
Will you also send Melody a card? Will you help me spread the word about my mission and keep the drive going?