Help Melissa Fight Cancer

If you've met my mom, you would know that she would put any and everyone ahead of herself. Melissa Goodwin Silk has been taking care of others since she started in the workforce — from working for her father at his clothing store in Southbridge in 1972, to being a chest physical therapist at BIDMC, to helping campers find their second homes at Camp Tevya, and now in the emergency department at Beth Israel Needham. She will drop anything and go far out of her way just to make sure you are feeling loved, supported, or even just seen.

My mom is the epitome of selflessness, kindness, and strength. She has always put others before herself, whether it's through raising me and Atlee with love and care, or helping friends and family with anything they needed. Her generosity and unwavering spirit have touched so many lives, and now, she needs our help.

My mom was recently diagnosed with high-grade, stage four uterine cancer. We have months-to-years of treatment ahead of us. She will be starting chemo soon and will have multiple clinic visits, likely more hospitalizations and procedures, copays for medications, all while being absent from work for the foreseeable future. While beginning treatment, she will be staying with me, her daughter, to help alleviate some of the pressure of managing this alone.

Despite her diagnosis, my mom remains hopeful and continues to face each day with courage and her usual "cup half full" outlook. However, the costs associated with her medical care, treatments, and the toll this will take are overwhelming. The financial burden of doctor visits, chemotherapy, and other essential treatments is something we can’t manage alone.

We are asking for your support during this incredibly difficult time. Your donations will go toward covering medical expenses, daily living costs, lost wages, and ensuring that my mom can focus on her health and well-being without the added stress of financial strain.

Every little bit helps, and we are deeply grateful for any contribution, whether it's a financial donation or a message of love and encouragement. Please keep my mom in your thoughts and prayers, and share this campaign with others who may be willing to help.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for supporting my mom in this fight. Her strength is extraordinary, but with your help, we can make this journey a little easier for her.