Support Melissa's dual battle with Metastatic Breast Cancer

Hi, my name is Mariah Armstrong, and I am creating this fund for my mother and very best friend, Melissa Rodd.

My mother was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012. Following a double mastectomy and numerous extended hospital stays, she underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments. With an abundance of prayers, love, care, and support from her family and doctors, she triumphed in her fight. However, the battle was not over.

In March 2019, we were faced with another cancer diagnosis. This time, it's a dual struggle. The breast cancer has metastasized, and she is also battling kidney cancer, both of which are stage 4 and highly aggressive. After the removal of a cancerous kidney and starting several treatment regimens, her body has become exhausted, suffering from the side effects of various medications. Managing treatments for both cancers has been complex, as they are not mutually compatible. The current course of treatment, although effective, has significantly reduced her quality of life. At 53 years young, a wife, mother of five, grandmother to eight, a sister, a daughter, and a cherished friend to many, the impact of her health on her daily life is immense. In December 2023, she was advised by her doctors to cease working to rest and enjoy her passions, like spending more time with her family. She was also placed in palliative care to enhance her quality of life. While rest and family time benefit the mind, body, and soul, financial resources are needed to sustain life.

It is with a humble heart that I am creating this fund to ask for financial assistance from our family and friends.

If you feel called to contribute towards and/or share our campaign, please know that you're making a huge difference in the lives of Melissa and her family. Every donation goes directly towards covering medical expenses like deductibles, co-insurance, and medication co-pays, in addition to other necessities like mortgage, utilities, and food/living expenses. In these times of rising costs and inflation, your support means even more, and we are deeply thankful for the love and support shown to us. May God bless each one of you!