#SammieStrong

I wanted to start a Go Fund Me Account on behalf of a very special person in my life, Sammie Mello.  Sammie is the daughter of very dear friends of mine, Steve and Cyndie Mello, whom I have known for 20 years.  Sammie is a beautiful, vibrant, smart and energetic 16-year-old who suffered a CVT (Cerebral Venous Thrombosis) on January 14.  When I informed people of what had happened there was not one person who did not ask what they could do to help this special family.  I have yet to meet a person who does not think Steve is the sweetest man alive, however I hadn’t realized the enormous degree of impact that he has had on peoples’ lives over the years until now.  Steve, a police officer for over 30 years, has suffered through his own medical issues for many years.  Sadly, his most recent health issue ended his law enforcement career three months ago---a career Steve was extremely proud of.  Cyndie now bears the burden of sole provider for her family.  A mother should be able to be with her child as much as possible during times such as these, and not have to spend so much time traveling back and forth from the hospital, to work, to home, etc.  This is a tremendous responsibility that she shouldn’t have to do alone.  Sammie has been in the NCCU at Rhode Island Hospital for the past week and will eventually need extensive physical therapy at a rehabilitation clinic.  As one can imagine there are large expenses that are incurred from being hospitalized (co-pays, gas, parking, meals, etc.).  The Mellos have had to do some “belt-tightening” since Steve’s employment ceased.  Their strained financial situation is sure to magnify greatly over the next several months.  Their plight has been heart-breaking to witness for those of us who love them, yet this family remains strong and optimistic.  They are truly an inspiration to us all.  I hope we can band together to help this special family.