For those of you who are not already aware, my Dad was diagnosed with melanoma two weeks ago. About a week ago, we also learned that the cancer had spread to his lungs, bones and a nodule in his brain. The doctors recommended radiation as well as immunotherapy, which is a stronger form of chemotherapy with harsher side effects.

My Dad started radiation earlier this week, and he had a few more cat scans and MRI's done, and it was determined that the cancer had also spread to his spine and parts of his back and right hip. The doctors determined that no matter how much they treated him, he will not get better. My Mom, sister (Jenny) and I had a conference with the doctors, nurses and my Dad to determine the next few steps, and we have learned that my Dad has been given a prognosis of 3-6 months left to live.

My Dad works for Land Developing, a small company that deals in drafting with housing. Because the company employs less than 50 people, my Dad does not qualify for FMLA, the Federal Medical Leave Act. Jenny and I looked into Disability, but it takes up to 6 months to receive the first check. Obviously, we do not have that kind of time.

My parents will soon be in desperate financial need. My Mom is a teacher in Rockdale County in Georgia, and we all know how severely underpaid teachers are in this country. Jenny has withdrawn from her spring semester classes at the University of Georgia, and she is currently job hunting (as well as keeping up with my parents' bills and trying to keep up with their budget) to help with paying the bills. I am sending whatever Eli and I can afford to send on a weekly basis.

While my Dad is very fortunate to have medical coverage, my family has already started receiving medical bills, the last of which totaled $400.

I am asking in this time of need for monetary donations to help my Mom and Dad, as well as Jenny. It is difficult enough to deal with my Dad's prognosis, and when I talk with Jenny each day, she grows more concerned about the mounting bills. Jenny is such an amazing young woman, and I want to help her and my parents as much as I possibly can. This is the first step.

Anything you can give would be appreciated more than you could imagine. You will be giving a much stressed Jenny some hope, as well as lifting a small weight off my parents' shoulders.

Please send any donation to:

Jennifer Werner

3878 Valley Brook Rd.

Snellville, GA 30039

I thank you all for your time, support, thoughts and prayers.

Melissa