In 2011, Melody, a nurse from Michigan, received shocking news: a colon cancer diagnosis. At only 39, she was years away from recommended screening and another jarring case of someone diagnosed younger than 50. With immediate surgery followed by chemotherapy, she was prepared to fight the long battle ahead.
During a time of great personal challenge, Melody’s stepdaughter, Jynell, put a smile on her stepmom’s face with greeting cards. When she saw Melody’s positive response, Jynell started Melody’s Get Well Card Drive on Facebook, encouraging well-wishers around the country to send inspiring messages to her stepmom to brighten her day. What she never imagined was how this movement would take off! Not only was Melody sent cards from all 50 states, but she received cards from 23 different countries, too! All told, more than 1,300 pieces of mail arrived in Melody’s mailbox on account of the Card Drive, including notes from Lance Armstrong and President Barack Obama – wow!
Melody's personal letter from President Obama![/caption]
With this outpouring of love and support, Melody now wants to focus her attention on stopping this highly-preventable disease before it starts, and supporting other patients through their cancer journeys. To do this, Melody and Jynell have teamed up with WeCare Card to raise awareness and funds for our lifesaving programs. If you have an interest in getting involved, please check out Melody’s campaign by September 22nd.
Have a great idea of your own? Contact Ali Ornitz at 202-628-0123 ex.109 – we’d love to hear from you!