When Melina was just ten years old, she was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder called HypoPlastic Myelodysplastic Syndrome and needed a bone marrow transplant to save her life. Her family was tested as potential donors and one of her brothers was a perfect match. Melina’s transplant was successful, but her journey did not end there.
Two years later, she started having strokes and was diagnosed with another life-threatening illness called CNS Vasculitis. More rounds of chemotherapy and other aggressive medications became a part of her daily life again.
Despite the challenges in her life, Melina maintained an unyielding spirit. “At the time, my doctors didn’t know what my future would look like. They weren’t confident that the medications would work,” she said. “I was tired, but I refused to give up.”
Today, Melina is nearly 14 years post-transplant and has had a total of 5 strokes. She takes daily medications that keep her stable, but Melina is happy, healthy, and living life to the fullest. “My medical journey hasn’t been easy, but it has shaped me into who I am today.”
In 2021, Melina graduated from Villanova University and started a new chapter in her life. She soon began her career at Penn Medicine and is now an Assistant Director of Development supporting Penn’s Abramson Cancer Center. “I believe my purpose in life is to use what I’ve learned from my own medical journey to help others, give back, and make a difference,” Melina explained. “I feel blessed to be able to do so daily.”
She also continues her work with nonprofits, like Hope & Heroes, whose mission is to help children with cancer and other blood disorders. In November 2023, Melina was featured as a patient ambassador at the Hope & Heroes Annual Gala where she shared her courageous story.
“Thank you to my amazing doctors and nurses, who provided me the best care. Thank you to my family and friends for being my biggest supporters. And importantly, thank you to organizations like Hope & Heroes, who support cutting-edge research and innovative care, giving children their best chance to lead healthy lives.”
Join Melina in helping to raise awareness and support for local children with cancer or blood disorders. Consider making your tax-deductible gift to Hope & Heroes today.
