Melissa McCawley (Lamonds): Hospital & Medical

Pete DiMaio here. I am establishing this fundraising page to help Melissa McCawley as she faces a very serious medical issue. I have known both Melissa and Gordon for over 20 years now, and consider them family. Both Melissa, and Gordon, are the kind of people who drop everything and help others. Rarely does the time exist when we're able to return the favor, and I hope that you'll be generous and take a moment to help them if you are able. I asked Gordon to share a little bit about Melissa's battles below, but needless to say, aside from the physical costs, the financial costs are pretty significant (considering their costs span two insurance years).

From Melissa’s husband Gordon:

Hi everyone, and thank you, Pete, for doing this.

Melissa has been diagnosed and has entered treatment for a rare condition called Proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immunoglobulin deposits. I know, right? Basically, her system is attacking her own kidneys, and her system very nearly won. The good news is they believe they can save her kidneys, avoiding a transplant. After nearly all of November and December in the hospital, the amazing docs at MUSC were able to identify and provide a plan.

She’s begun a six-month course of low-dose chemotherapy, with injections, an array of medications, and dialysis three times per week. I won’t go into all of the details, just that the program leaves her very tired. She’s still finding time to get to her computer and hammer out her design work as needed. She refuses to abandon her clients when they need her!

We missed having her home for Christmas and New Year’s, but she did get to celebrate Colt’s sweet 16! Now she faces a long, tough battle. Many of you have asked if there was anything you could do, and I guess this fundraiser is that thing. We’re already sending payments out, and just a little relief from that mounting burden

would be a Godsend right now. Only if you are able. And if not, please continue to send your good thoughts, wishes and prayers. They have meant, and continue to mean the world to us both. Love to you all, Gordon

From Pete again…

All donations will be used to pay for:

I have set the account to transfer all proceeds of this campaign directly into their joint bank account to be used at their discretion. If you are able to donate, please make sure to leave a personal note for Melissa!

Best,

Pete