Melanies journey

1. #team melanie#team melanie
TRIBUTETRIBUTE
ToTo
MELANIE!!!MELANIE!!!
For everything thatFor everything that
you have gone thru!!you have gone thru!!
We love you!!!We love you!!!

2. Melanie’ JourneyMelanie’ Journey
• The biggest thing that we can do is pray pray pray. Jeff and MelThe biggest thing that we can do is pray pray pray. Jeff and Mel
went to the er on Saturday morning and went thru numerouswent to the er on Saturday morning and went thru numerous
testing, Upon further testing at Orange City they found that shetesting, Upon further testing at Orange City they found that she
had a tumor that was bleeding and that she would be best if shehad a tumor that was bleeding and that she would be best if she
would be transferred to Sioux falls. Mel got taken by ambulance towould be transferred to Sioux falls. Mel got taken by ambulance to
Sioux falls on Saturday because of feeling light headed and just notSioux falls on Saturday because of feeling light headed and just not
herself. So away she went. When she got there on Saturday sheherself. So away she went. When she got there on Saturday she
was very low on her hemoglobin. A normal range is around 11 Melwas very low on her hemoglobin. A normal range is around 11 Mel
was at 7. She had to have 4 pints of blood giving to her. Shewas at 7. She had to have 4 pints of blood giving to her. She
had another scan done in Sioux Falls and it confirmed with a biopsyhad another scan done in Sioux Falls and it confirmed with a biopsy
that she had done that she is in stage 3 cancer. This is not newsthat she had done that she is in stage 3 cancer. This is not news
that we wouldn't to hear for her family but Mel is a FIGHTER andthat we wouldn't to hear for her family but Mel is a FIGHTER and
STRONG WILLED and she will beat this. She went home on SundaySTRONG WILLED and she will beat this. She went home on Sunday
and they told her that if it would bleed a lot more than she wouldand they told her that if it would bleed a lot more than she would
need to go back. Well Monday after noon it did so Jeff took herneed to go back. Well Monday after noon it did so Jeff took her
back in. She was admitted and is still there .She had a scan doneback in. She was admitted and is still there .She had a scan done
and it showed that there is a mass and that mass is in oneand it showed that there is a mass and that mass is in one
localized area. Tuesday they had lots of talks with the doctors,localized area. Tuesday they had lots of talks with the doctors,
surgeons, radiology and more that I am probably forgetting. Theysurgeons, radiology and more that I am probably forgetting. They
said that on Tuesday that she would have her first round ofsaid that on Tuesday that she would have her first round of
radiation. Mel went down around 4 and got her first radiation. Sheradiation. Mel went down around 4 and got her first radiation. She
thought it all went well but it didn't agree so well with her stomach.thought it all went well but it didn't agree so well with her stomach.
She was pretty green around the gills as she put it. She was veryShe was pretty green around the gills as she put it. She was very
tired on Tuesday from the radiation and from all the visits from thetired on Tuesday from the radiation and from all the visits from the
doctors.doctors.

3. She will have radiation for 6 weeks 5 times a week forShe will have radiation for 6 weeks 5 times a week for
ranging from 15-30 minutes. They will also be doing someranging from 15-30 minutes. They will also be doing some
form of radiation according to Mel if I heard right that willform of radiation according to Mel if I heard right that will
be on every Wednesday. At this point we don't know if shebe on every Wednesday. At this point we don't know if she
will need drivers yet or not.will need drivers yet or not.
Also at this point it doesn't look like she will have to stayAlso at this point it doesn't look like she will have to stay
as inpatient in Sioux falls. She will be traveling back andas inpatient in Sioux falls. She will be traveling back and
forth every day.forth every day.
I will be posting on her every day so that people can seeI will be posting on her every day so that people can see
the updates of her and send her words of encouragement.the updates of her and send her words of encouragement.
PLEASE pray for her health, the doctors, and her family asPLEASE pray for her health, the doctors, and her family as
they have a long road ahead of them but they will get thruthey have a long road ahead of them but they will get thru
it!!!!it!!!!
I will find out more info as we get it to us. MelanieI will find out more info as we get it to us. Melanie
Roemeling u are truly and inspiration to me and everyoneRoemeling u are truly and inspiration to me and everyone
else stay STRONG!!! else stay STRONG!!!

5. Window decals made in honor of Mel’s Fight.

6. • Some news to pass along on the journey of Mel. Wed was a good day forSome news to pass along on the journey of Mel. Wed was a good day for
her for the most part. She was not able to come home like they originallyher for the most part. She was not able to come home like they originally
planned but she made it home tonight. I went and visited her last night andplanned but she made it home tonight. I went and visited her last night and
she was in pretty good spirits. She explained the whole process of radiationshe was in pretty good spirits. She explained the whole process of radiation
which was very interesting. The boys and Jeff were able to see how itwhich was very interesting. The boys and Jeff were able to see how it
worked and what exactly it did. What was really unique to the boys was thatworked and what exactly it did. What was really unique to the boys was that
the door that Mel has to go thru weighs I think Jeff said 4,000the door that Mel has to go thru weighs I think Jeff said 4,000
pounds....That is incredible!!!They put Mel on a table and Mel has to laypounds....That is incredible!!!They put Mel on a table and Mel has to lay
extremely still. She has a mold for her legs that is strictly hers she puts herextremely still. She has a mold for her legs that is strictly hers she puts her
legs in at and then she has to lay perfectly still. Then a big machine circleslegs in at and then she has to lay perfectly still. Then a big machine circles
around her and focuses in on her "tattoos" which she has 4 marks on heraround her and focuses in on her "tattoos" which she has 4 marks on her
one on each side one in the front and one in the back I think she said. Theone on each side one in the front and one in the back I think she said. The
machine goes around and then puts the radiation in that spot. Radiation is amachine goes around and then puts the radiation in that spot. Radiation is a
short process and it takes only about 15 minutes then she is done.short process and it takes only about 15 minutes then she is done.
Fortunately she didn't have any side effects from this. Mel went back to herFortunately she didn't have any side effects from this. Mel went back to her
room and hung out with her family some much needed time for them to beroom and hung out with her family some much needed time for them to be
together. Mel has had lots of phone calls and messages she's trying to gettogether. Mel has had lots of phone calls and messages she's trying to get
to them all but if she don't know that she did get them and have read andto them all but if she don't know that she did get them and have read and
listened to all her messages. While visiting with her they received somelistened to all her messages. While visiting with her they received some
rocks that they passed out that had words written on them that they arerocks that they passed out that had words written on them that they are
suppose to keep with them in there pocket or where ever they go. I will trysuppose to keep with them in there pocket or where ever they go. I will try
and post a pic of them.and post a pic of them.
• Today Thursday Mel had radiation again and then they inserted a PICC lineToday Thursday Mel had radiation again and then they inserted a PICC line
for her to get her chemo in. She had a round of chemo today and no sidefor her to get her chemo in. She had a round of chemo today and no side
effects. As of now the doctor said beings the chemo was not a huge amounteffects. As of now the doctor said beings the chemo was not a huge amount
she shouldn't have a lot of side effects. Mel got dismissed around 630. Sheshe shouldn't have a lot of side effects. Mel got dismissed around 630. She
is tired and am sure she will zonk out and hopefully get a good nights sleepis tired and am sure she will zonk out and hopefully get a good nights sleep
tom.tom.

7. PSALM 86PSALM 86
• Psalm 86:1-7, 11-17Psalm 86:1-7, 11-17
Hear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.Hear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.
Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God;Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God;
save your servant who trusts in you. Have mercy on me, Osave your servant who trusts in you. Have mercy on me, O
Lord, for I call to you all day long. Bring joy to yourLord, for I call to you all day long. Bring joy to your
servant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. You areservant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. You are
forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all whoforgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who
call to you. Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry forcall to you. Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for
mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for youmercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you
will answer me. Teach me your way, O LORD, and I willwill answer me. Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will
walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that Iwalk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I
may fear your name. I will praise you, O Lord my God,may fear your name. I will praise you, O Lord my God,
with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. Forwith all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For
great is your love toward me; you have delivered me fromgreat is your love toward me; you have delivered me from
the depths of the grave. The arrogant are attacking me, Othe depths of the grave. The arrogant are attacking me, O
God; a band of ruthless men seeks my life men withoutGod; a band of ruthless men seeks my life men without
regard for you. But you, O Lord, are a compassionate andregard for you. But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and
gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love andgracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and
faithfulness. Turn to me and have mercy on me; grantfaithfulness. Turn to me and have mercy on me; grant
your strength to your servant and save the son of youryour strength to your servant and save the son of your
maidservant. Give me a sign of your goodness, that mymaidservant. Give me a sign of your goodness, that my
enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O LORD,enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O LORD,
have helped me and comforted me.have helped me and comforted me.

8. HALLELUJAH!!!!!!HALLELUJAH!!!!!!
• Just talked to Mel and we have someJust talked to Mel and we have some
WONDERFUL NEWS TO SHARE!!!! The petWONDERFUL NEWS TO SHARE!!!! The pet
scan that she had came back with no morescan that she had came back with no more
masses she still is in stage 3 cervical cancer butmasses she still is in stage 3 cervical cancer but
there was no more tumors that showed up. I willthere was no more tumors that showed up. I will
post more later tonight but had to pass on thispost more later tonight but had to pass on this
wonderful news!!!!wonderful news!!!!
• AWESOME AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thanksAWESOME AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thanks
everyone for taking the time to pray for hereveryone for taking the time to pray for her

9. Feeling miserable...but yet gratefulFeeling miserable...but yet grateful
with community responsewith community response
• I stopped over at Mel's house yesterday and gave them some of the donations and inI stopped over at Mel's house yesterday and gave them some of the donations and in
general asked some questions on how she was feeling. She was in good spirits butgeneral asked some questions on how she was feeling. She was in good spirits but
she is emotionally and physically drained. They have consumed a lot of information inshe is emotionally and physically drained. They have consumed a lot of information in
the last week that both her and Jeff's heads are spinning with all the news, tests, whatthe last week that both her and Jeff's heads are spinning with all the news, tests, what
days radiation will be and so forth. Mel had the procedure where they put the PICCdays radiation will be and so forth. Mel had the procedure where they put the PICC
line in but in some misunderstanding and for some unknown reason they pulledline in but in some misunderstanding and for some unknown reason they pulled
the PICC line back out.the PICC line back out.
• So they will have to re insert it again. She has a lot of bruising from all the times theySo they will have to re insert it again. She has a lot of bruising from all the times they
tried to stick her veins are not cooperating.tried to stick her veins are not cooperating.
• I shared with Mel and the information on the upcoming bake sales, the pizza ranch tipI shared with Mel and the information on the upcoming bake sales, the pizza ranch tip
night, and the online auction. Jeff and Melanie were moved by the amount ofnight, and the online auction. Jeff and Melanie were moved by the amount of
response the community is given her. Many times she said I just can't believe this, Iresponse the community is given her. Many times she said I just can't believe this, I
can't believe this. Told her that she had a lot of people pulling for her.can't believe this. Told her that she had a lot of people pulling for her.
• The plan was that she was suppose to go back up there on Sunday with a full bladderThe plan was that she was suppose to go back up there on Sunday with a full bladder
and so some testing and get her permanent markings for her radiation but that hasand so some testing and get her permanent markings for her radiation but that has
changed a bit.changed a bit.
• Jeff has called on and off thru the day and she has not had a good day. She hasJeff has called on and off thru the day and she has not had a good day. She has
been sleeping most of the day and when she is not asleep she has been throwing upbeen sleeping most of the day and when she is not asleep she has been throwing up
and just feeling miserable. She has a lot of different medications going thru her andand just feeling miserable. She has a lot of different medications going thru her and
that are not agreeing with her. Unfortunately Jeff called at 5:15 and they are takingthat are not agreeing with her. Unfortunately Jeff called at 5:15 and they are taking
her back to the hospital. The doctor will be in contact with the ER doctor in Orangeher back to the hospital. The doctor will be in contact with the ER doctor in Orange
City and they are going to start there. What they will do we don't know, all we know isCity and they are going to start there. What they will do we don't know, all we know is
that she is miserable and more than likely dehydrated. When I know more I will passthat she is miserable and more than likely dehydrated. When I know more I will pass
along the information. Please start praying....along the information. Please start praying....

10. Sioux Falls…here sheSioux Falls…here she
comescomes
• Just an update Mel is being transferredJust an update Mel is being transferred
from Orange City to Sioux Falls. She isfrom Orange City to Sioux Falls. She is
getting IV's and will update more tom.getting IV's and will update more tom.

12. Tiny bump in the roadTiny bump in the road
• Today was on "ok" day for Mel. She is a patient at the hospital in Sioux Falls. After anToday was on "ok" day for Mel. She is a patient at the hospital in Sioux Falls. After an
ambulance ride last night because of severe stomach pains, and for her not to beambulance ride last night because of severe stomach pains, and for her not to be
able to keep anything down they sent her on her way to the hospital. The stomachable to keep anything down they sent her on her way to the hospital. The stomach
pains come from when she had the scan is what they are thinking the solution thatpains come from when she had the scan is what they are thinking the solution that
they gave her basically the doctor said coated the inside of the stomach and basicallythey gave her basically the doctor said coated the inside of the stomach and basically
makes it hard for anything to go in and anything to go out, this is not uncommon. Thismakes it hard for anything to go in and anything to go out, this is not uncommon. This
evening she is feeling a little better as things are moving now in her system. Sheevening she is feeling a little better as things are moving now in her system. She
doesn't have much of an appetite but she is getting some pretty good mixed drinks :)doesn't have much of an appetite but she is getting some pretty good mixed drinks :)
• The plan is tomorrow is that they will give her the permanent markings for herThe plan is tomorrow is that they will give her the permanent markings for her
radiation. Jeff said that it would be about a 2 hour process. She will also haveradiation. Jeff said that it would be about a 2 hour process. She will also have
radiation tomorrow as long as she can get rid of her stomach pains. They don't reallyradiation tomorrow as long as she can get rid of her stomach pains. They don't really
know what tomorrow will hold it will depend on what kind of night Mel will have.know what tomorrow will hold it will depend on what kind of night Mel will have.
• For tonight add Mel to your prayer list, praying for comfort, sleep, and healing. PrayFor tonight add Mel to your prayer list, praying for comfort, sleep, and healing. Pray
that the good days continue to outnumber the days with bumps. that the good days continue to outnumber the days with bumps.
• We know where our strength lies and we know that God's love never fails. With HisWe know where our strength lies and we know that God's love never fails. With His
strength and love and our faith in Him all is possible! strength and love and our faith in Him all is possible!
• Jeff, Melanie and the boys want to thank everyone for their continued support and allJeff, Melanie and the boys want to thank everyone for their continued support and all
the prayers.....the prayers.....

14. ANOTHER NIGHTANOTHER NIGHT
• Just a quick update on Mel. Unfortunately she wasn't able to come home today. SheJust a quick update on Mel. Unfortunately she wasn't able to come home today. She
still is having a lot stomach pains, so the doctor wouldn't let her come home...Shestill is having a lot stomach pains, so the doctor wouldn't let her come home...She
needs to getneeds to get
"tattooed" yet but that wont be until she has everything eliminated out of her system."tattooed" yet but that wont be until she has everything eliminated out of her system.
Once she does then the 2 hour process will begin to tattoo her. Please pray for MelOnce she does then the 2 hour process will begin to tattoo her. Please pray for Mel
that she will be able to come home soon and that she wont need to spendthat she will be able to come home soon and that she wont need to spend
thanksgiving in the hospital. Please also pray for the rest of the family as thethanksgiving in the hospital. Please also pray for the rest of the family as the
emotions are starting to take a toll on them. Pray for Jeff as he is beside himself, aemotions are starting to take a toll on them. Pray for Jeff as he is beside himself, a
simple request if you know him send him a text or call him let him know you aresimple request if you know him send him a text or call him let him know you are
praying for them a phone call means the world to some people.praying for them a phone call means the world to some people.
• I challenge you this week to spread some Thanksgiving cheer and randomly tellI challenge you this week to spread some Thanksgiving cheer and randomly tell
others how thankful you are for them. When I think of Mel, I thank God 4 times for theothers how thankful you are for them. When I think of Mel, I thank God 4 times for the
family. family.
"Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings but it also unlocks"Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings but it also unlocks
the doors of heaven and helps us feel God's love."the doors of heaven and helps us feel God's love."
• "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever." Psalm 107:"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever." Psalm 107:

15. She’s HomeShe’s Home
• Just a quick entry tonight...as you can tell by the title of the journal MelJust a quick entry tonight...as you can tell by the title of the journal Mel
made it home late this afternoon. She got her tattoos marked this morningmade it home late this afternoon. She got her tattoos marked this morning
and then passed all that she could pass and the doctor gave her theand then passed all that she could pass and the doctor gave her the
clearing to come home. She has to go back tomorrow for radiation and thenclearing to come home. She has to go back tomorrow for radiation and then
for chemo. Lets pray that the chemo doesn't have a lot of side effects andfor chemo. Lets pray that the chemo doesn't have a lot of side effects and
that she will be able to enjoy Thanksgiving at home with her family.that she will be able to enjoy Thanksgiving at home with her family.
• She was so exited that she got to come home today this was the entry fromShe was so exited that she got to come home today this was the entry from
FacebookFacebook
• Get to come home today!! I AM APPOINTMENT EXCITED!!!!!Get to come home today!! I AM APPOINTMENT EXCITED!!!!!
• —— feeling excited.feeling excited.
• I just had to put that in there Melanie that way when you are looking backI just had to put that in there Melanie that way when you are looking back
and reading all your posts that this will put a smile to your face. Don't worryand reading all your posts that this will put a smile to your face. Don't worry
in the next comment that she has on Face book is that ofin the next comment that she has on Face book is that of
• Not sure how appointment got in the last comment?? DOESN'T MATTER INot sure how appointment got in the last comment?? DOESN'T MATTER I
GET TO GO HOME!!!GET TO GO HOME!!!
• Anything to put a smile on your face :)Anything to put a smile on your face :)
• Let's pray that tomorrow she has a good day, that she will have minimal sideLet's pray that tomorrow she has a good day, that she will have minimal side
effects from the radiation and chemo, and for the steady hands of theeffects from the radiation and chemo, and for the steady hands of the
doctors and nurses thru this week and following days, weeks and months todoctors and nurses thru this week and following days, weeks and months to
come. So happy that you are home Mel have a great THANKSGIVING!!!!come. So happy that you are home Mel have a great THANKSGIVING!!!!
We are all rejoicing that you are home and get to spend it with loved onesWe are all rejoicing that you are home and get to spend it with loved ones
during the holiday time!!!!!!!during the holiday time!!!!!!!

16. This year I am truly thankful for the most wonderful
friends, family, co-workers, church family, medical
people and anyone who has touched my life so far.
People are truly kind and I can't Thank everyone
enough for what they have done for me so far. To
define kindness: it is a state of being friendly,
generous, and considerate. All I can say is that people
have shown me kindness in so many ways and I want
to THANK EVERYONE for that!!! HOPE EVERYONE
HAS A BLESSED THANKSGIVING!!!!

17. THANKSGIVINGTHANKSGIVING
• Rachel has been an awesome friend (in so manyRachel has been an awesome friend (in so many
ways) setting up this Caring Bridge page letting everyoneways) setting up this Caring Bridge page letting everyone
know how things have been going so far for me. It hasknow how things have been going so far for me. It has
been a crazy couple of weeks to say the least. Yesterdaybeen a crazy couple of weeks to say the least. Yesterday
had another radiation treatment and will continue thathad another radiation treatment and will continue that
process for 6 weeks. I will have chemo on Tuesdays. Iprocess for 6 weeks. I will have chemo on Tuesdays. I
am so thankful to be home for Thanksgiving!!!! Wasn'tam so thankful to be home for Thanksgiving!!!! Wasn't
sure if that was going to happen but with all your prayerssure if that was going to happen but with all your prayers
it did!!! Jeff and I, Austin and Brandon can't thankit did!!! Jeff and I, Austin and Brandon can't thank
everyone enough for your prayers and generosity. Weeveryone enough for your prayers and generosity. We
are truly thankful for family, friends, co-workers, churchare truly thankful for family, friends, co-workers, church
family, medical people and anyone who has touched ourfamily, medical people and anyone who has touched our
lives so far. We want to thank everyone and hopelives so far. We want to thank everyone and hope
everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! THANKeveryone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! THANK
YOU!!!!!YOU!!!!!

18. Have not updated in a couple of days. Thanksgiving
was AWESOME spending time with family! Jeff and I
also got to spend time this weekend with some very
good friends! Friday and Saturday I went to Sioux
Falls for radiation by 8:15. A couple early mornings.
For the rest of the time radiation will be at 8:45.
Saturday was kind of weird just for the fact there was
no one around but the two giving the radiation. She
also had to come and let us in because security had
not unlocked the doors. Well we start another week. I
pray the weather continues to cooperate. Continued
thanks to everyone for all the prayers, meals,
supporting our family and just everything!!!!!
Melanie R.

19. • Today was a big day for Mel. She arrived in Sioux falls this morning for radiation,Today was a big day for Mel. She arrived in Sioux falls this morning for radiation,
chemo, and scans. She was given a lot of information today and I hope I get all the infochemo, and scans. She was given a lot of information today and I hope I get all the info
to you correctly. She started with radiation, that went pretty good she said no sideto you correctly. She started with radiation, that went pretty good she said no side
effects or nothing there. Around noon then she went for her chemo. It started off not soeffects or nothing there. Around noon then she went for her chemo. It started off not so
good she said after the nurse trying 2 different times to get the IV in she wasn't off to agood she said after the nurse trying 2 different times to get the IV in she wasn't off to a
good start. Second nurse came and she was successful on the first attempt. Then thegood start. Second nurse came and she was successful on the first attempt. Then the
"cocktails" started flowing. She ended up getting some anti-nausea medication first."cocktails" started flowing. She ended up getting some anti-nausea medication first.
Then another bag of anti-nausea meds mixed with fluid, then she had one moreThen another bag of anti-nausea meds mixed with fluid, then she had one more
bag anti nausea fluid. The nurse said that she would end up going to the bathroombag anti nausea fluid. The nurse said that she would end up going to the bathroom
quite a bit and according to Jeff that was no joke, bout the time that he got comfortablequite a bit and according to Jeff that was no joke, bout the time that he got comfortable
he had to get up and move again so that Mel could go. After all the bags of fluid andhe had to get up and move again so that Mel could go. After all the bags of fluid and
anti nausea meds is when she got her "brown bag" of chemo. Asking her what thatanti nausea meds is when she got her "brown bag" of chemo. Asking her what that
meant was that the chemo that she is getting is in a iv bag and it has a black/brownishmeant was that the chemo that she is getting is in a iv bag and it has a black/brownish
bag that covers it because if it sees sunlight it will kill the effects that the chemo wouldbag that covers it because if it sees sunlight it will kill the effects that the chemo would
have. It has to stay out of light so that it will have the potency that it should have. Thehave. It has to stay out of light so that it will have the potency that it should have. The
nurse that was giving her the chemo said that it is the strongest chemo that she couldnurse that was giving her the chemo said that it is the strongest chemo that she could
have. The side effects that it could have are endless and it could be different with everyhave. The side effects that it could have are endless and it could be different with every
person. She could get really sick, she might not over time she will know...person. She could get really sick, she might not over time she will know...
• Tuesdays will be the day that she will have chemo. It is quite the process...She willTuesdays will be the day that she will have chemo. It is quite the process...She will
have it 4 more times then she will begin a new type of treatmenthave it 4 more times then she will begin a new type of treatment

20. • She is going in for surgery on Dec 23 which they will insert a tubeShe is going in for surgery on Dec 23 which they will insert a tube
in her. The surgery she will be put under for them to insert the tubein her. The surgery she will be put under for them to insert the tube
that will remain in place so that they can target the radiationthat will remain in place so that they can target the radiation
directly on the tumor. The surgery will be about a 2 hour process,directly on the tumor. The surgery will be about a 2 hour process,
she will be strapped to the table so that she will not be able toshe will be strapped to the table so that she will not be able to
move at all. It is very crucial that she lay very very still so they canmove at all. It is very crucial that she lay very very still so they can
direct the tube on the tumor and also to the left of her femaledirect the tube on the tumor and also to the left of her female
organs because she said there is a spot to the left which there isorgans because she said there is a spot to the left which there is
also a mass.also a mass.
• The tube will be kept in place for a total of 4 times that they will doThe tube will be kept in place for a total of 4 times that they will do
the radiation on her. It is very strong and very powerful and forthe radiation on her. It is very strong and very powerful and for
most people they get really sick. We hope that this isn't the case inmost people they get really sick. We hope that this isn't the case in
Mel's case. The nurses, doctors and the chemo and radiationMel's case. The nurses, doctors and the chemo and radiation
specialists can't believe on how Mel is taking it and that she isn'tspecialists can't believe on how Mel is taking it and that she isn't
showing very many side effects. Heck she even went to work for ashowing very many side effects. Heck she even went to work for a
couple of hours on Monday, now that is pure DETERMINATION ofcouple of hours on Monday, now that is pure DETERMINATION of
someone that is beyond STRONG!!!!someone that is beyond STRONG!!!!
• It is possible that Melanie will need drivers, for sure in January ofIt is possible that Melanie will need drivers, for sure in January of
when they will target the radiation directly on her tumor. I will trywhen they will target the radiation directly on her tumor. I will try
and keep it updated if there is anyone that will be able to help driveand keep it updated if there is anyone that will be able to help drive
that would be wonderful...that would be wonderful...
• Melanie will also be having a MRI this week as well she is not sureMelanie will also be having a MRI this week as well she is not sure
when yet.when yet.
• PLEASE continue to pray for Mel in the upcoming weeks so thatPLEASE continue to pray for Mel in the upcoming weeks so that
she will continue to have minimal side effects, for her upcomingshe will continue to have minimal side effects, for her upcoming
surgery, and for the powerful radiation that she will be getting.surgery, and for the powerful radiation that she will be getting.
Guide the hands of many that are involved..Once again the familyGuide the hands of many that are involved..Once again the family
THANKS everyone that have done so many things for her, wordsTHANKS everyone that have done so many things for her, words
cannot express enough!!!! Lets end on this note ""Give thanks tocannot express enough!!!! Lets end on this note ""Give thanks to
the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever." Psalm 107:1"the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever." Psalm 107:1"

22. BAKE SALE PICTURESBAKE SALE PICTURES

24. KINDNESSKINDNESS
• This year I am truly thankful for the mostThis year I am truly thankful for the most
wonderful friends, family, co-workers, churchwonderful friends, family, co-workers, church
family, medical people and anyone who hasfamily, medical people and anyone who has
touched my life so far. People are truly kindtouched my life so far. People are truly kind
and I can't Thank everyone enough for whatand I can't Thank everyone enough for what
they have done for me so far. To definethey have done for me so far. To define
kindness: it is a state of being friendly,kindness: it is a state of being friendly,
generous, and considerate. All I can say isgenerous, and considerate. All I can say is
that people have shown me kindness in sothat people have shown me kindness in so
many ways and I want to THANKmany ways and I want to THANK
EVERYONE for that!!! HOPE EVERYONEEVERYONE for that!!! HOPE EVERYONE
HAS A BLESSED THANKSGIVING!!!!HAS A BLESSED THANKSGIVING!!!!

25. PIZZAPIZZA
RANCH TIPRANCH TIP
NIGHTNIGHT

26. PIZZA ANYONE???PIZZA ANYONE???

29. LAST OF THE TIPNIGHT!!!LAST OF THE TIPNIGHT!!!

30. THANKS FOR EVERYTHINGTHANKS FOR EVERYTHING
• Hi this is Melanie. Made it through another round ofHi this is Melanie. Made it through another round of
chemo. Want to thank Rachel for updating my site. Shechemo. Want to thank Rachel for updating my site. She
has been doing a wonderful job!!! Also need to thankhas been doing a wonderful job!!! Also need to thank
Rachel for lining up the tip night Monday the 8th in Hull.Rachel for lining up the tip night Monday the 8th in Hull.
It was AWESOME!! BIG THANK YOU to all the helpersIt was AWESOME!! BIG THANK YOU to all the helpers
and people who came and supported us!! Also wanted toand people who came and supported us!! Also wanted to
thank the Stegemann's (Sara & Jo) for heading up thethank the Stegemann's (Sara & Jo) for heading up the
bake sale at St. Paul Lutheran (in Sheldon) Sunday thebake sale at St. Paul Lutheran (in Sheldon) Sunday the
8th. It was truly FANTASTIC!!! HUGE THANK YOU to all8th. It was truly FANTASTIC!!! HUGE THANK YOU to all
who helped and for the people who supported us!! Iwho helped and for the people who supported us!! I
know sound like I am at a loss for words and I am. Iknow sound like I am at a loss for words and I am. I
believe God has blessed me greatly with all of you!! believe God has blessed me greatly with all of you!!
THE ROEMELING FAMILY WANTS TO THANK YOUTHE ROEMELING FAMILY WANTS TO THANK YOU
SO MUCH!!!!!!!SO MUCH!!!!!!!

31. Want to thank everyone so much for helpingWant to thank everyone so much for helping
and coming to the St. Paul Lutheran bakeand coming to the St. Paul Lutheran bake
sale, Sunday and Pizza Ranch tip nightsale, Sunday and Pizza Ranch tip night
Monday night. Words or I can't express how IMonday night. Words or I can't express how I
feel. I am at a loss for words. People havefeel. I am at a loss for words. People have
shown us so much kindness and I think it isshown us so much kindness and I think it is
truly amazing!! The Roemeling family wantstruly amazing!! The Roemeling family wants
to THANK each and everyone so much!!!!!!!to THANK each and everyone so much!!!!!!!

32. • As you can see from the title, a huge thanksAs you can see from the title, a huge thanks
to everyone that came out last night andto everyone that came out last night and
supported the family. The SUPPORT from thesupported the family. The SUPPORT from the
community is beyond words. I think that wecommunity is beyond words. I think that we
left them a little speechless. Melanie had aleft them a little speechless. Melanie had a
eventful day again today, starting witheventful day again today, starting with
radiation at 8:30 this morning. She completedradiation at 8:30 this morning. She completed
that then had an appointment with Dr.Bell andthat then had an appointment with Dr.Bell and
then went down to chemo and had that startedthen went down to chemo and had that started
at 10:00. If everything would have went theat 10:00. If everything would have went the
way it planned she should have been done inway it planned she should have been done in
two hours, but it didn't go that way. Mel's skintwo hours, but it didn't go that way. Mel's skin
was saying something different. The nurseswas saying something different. The nurses
said that she had tough skin and I told hersaid that she had tough skin and I told her
that was no under statement. Because she is that was no under statement. Because she is
pretty "TOUGH" to which she replied surepretty "TOUGH" to which she replied sure
am!!!!.am!!!!.

33. • Things have changed a little bit since the last update.Things have changed a little bit since the last update.
Mel was suppose to go in for surgery on the 23rd ofMel was suppose to go in for surgery on the 23rd of
December but they moved everything up. She will nowDecember but they moved everything up. She will now
have the surgery on the 17th. Once she is done with thehave the surgery on the 17th. Once she is done with the
surgery she will be moved right from recovery to dosurgery she will be moved right from recovery to do
radiation. She thinks that she will have chemo then asradiation. She thinks that she will have chemo then as
well but she is not 100% sure. She will have the internalwell but she is not 100% sure. She will have the internal
chemo done a total of 4 times. For sure she will have thechemo done a total of 4 times. For sure she will have the
internal radiation Jan 5, 8 and 12. She don't know whatinternal radiation Jan 5, 8 and 12. She don't know what
the side effects will be because of the new chemo thatthe side effects will be because of the new chemo that
she will be having. She knows for sure that she will needshe will be having. She knows for sure that she will need
drivers and I think we have that all lined up. Thanks todrivers and I think we have that all lined up. Thanks to
the people that responded to the fact of that she needsthe people that responded to the fact of that she needs
drivers. This will help them out tremendously. With thatdrivers. This will help them out tremendously. With that
being said I think that if there are people that want tobeing said I think that if there are people that want to
continue with meals for the month of January I think wecontinue with meals for the month of January I think we
will, We don't know how she will feel that month and Iwill, We don't know how she will feel that month and I
think that having meals will be once less thing that thethink that having meals will be once less thing that the
family will have to worry about. I will try and get afamily will have to worry about. I will try and get a
January calendar loaded.January calendar loaded.
• I will update next week after her surgery untilI will update next week after her surgery until
then....THANKS!!!!!!!!!!then....THANKS!!!!!!!!!!

34. HAT AND PAJAMA DAYHAT AND PAJAMA DAY
• THE BOYDEN HULL ELEMENTARY SCHOOLTHE BOYDEN HULL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
THE MIDDLE SCHOOL AND THE HIGHTHE MIDDLE SCHOOL AND THE HIGH
SCHOOL DECIDED TO THROW A PAJAMASCHOOL DECIDED TO THROW A PAJAMA
AND HAT DAY AND ALL THE PROCEEDSAND HAT DAY AND ALL THE PROCEEDS
WENT TO MELANIE. IF THEY CHOOSE TOWENT TO MELANIE. IF THEY CHOOSE TO
WEAR HATS OR PAJAMA’S THEY HAD TOWEAR HATS OR PAJAMA’S THEY HAD TO
DONATE A DOLLAR. TEACHERS COULDDONATE A DOLLAR. TEACHERS COULD
WEAR JEANS BUT THEY HAD TOWEAR JEANS BUT THEY HAD TO
CONTRIBUTE FIVE DOLLARS GREAT GREATCONTRIBUTE FIVE DOLLARS GREAT GREAT
IDEAIDEA

35. HAT, JEANS AND PJ’S DAYHAT, JEANS AND PJ’S DAY

38. • As I sit here on this chilly night in December to what someAs I sit here on this chilly night in December to what some
people call a "white Christmas" I'm listening to one of mypeople call a "white Christmas" I'm listening to one of my
favorite songs hence the title. There are so many things in lifefavorite songs hence the title. There are so many things in life
to what I call "Blessings"....My favorite line "what if yourto what I call "Blessings"....My favorite line "what if your
healing comes thru tears"? What a journey Mel has been thruhealing comes thru tears"? What a journey Mel has been thru
since a month ago...to the words you have cancer, tosince a month ago...to the words you have cancer, to
everything will be alright, we are thinking of you, what can weeverything will be alright, we are thinking of you, what can we
do to help, we are praying for you, and the list could go on anddo to help, we are praying for you, and the list could go on and
on...The greatest news thou of all was to hear the sentence"on...The greatest news thou of all was to hear the sentence"
Your tumor is getting smaller". What a blessing!!!!!Your tumor is getting smaller". What a blessing!!!!!
• Then we get to my second favorite part of the songThen we get to my second favorite part of the song
• We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering...All theWe pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering...All the
while, You hear each spoken need, yet love is way toowhile, You hear each spoken need, yet love is way too
much..... I know the amount of love that everyone has shownmuch..... I know the amount of love that everyone has shown
Mel and she is beyond at a loss for words..She doesn't evenMel and she is beyond at a loss for words..She doesn't even
know where to begin to say the least.know where to begin to say the least.

39. • Mel has experienced so many blessings. Even thou sheMel has experienced so many blessings. Even thou she
has had tough times and will continue to have more badhas had tough times and will continue to have more bad
days then good days she will count the smallest thingsdays then good days she will count the smallest things
as blessings. Mel had a so so day today. She hadas blessings. Mel had a so so day today. She had
surgery at 7:30 this morning and it went ok. She had lotssurgery at 7:30 this morning and it went ok. She had lots
of pain but they used a different kind of anesthesia thisof pain but they used a different kind of anesthesia this
time, the anesthetist said count to ten and Mel said thattime, the anesthetist said count to ten and Mel said that
she was out by the count of 4, and the rest was history. she was out by the count of 4, and the rest was history.
The doctor said that it went better this time than last. SheThe doctor said that it went better this time than last. She
had internal radiation today and tomorrow she will havehad internal radiation today and tomorrow she will have
chemo. There hasn't been much change in how she haschemo. There hasn't been much change in how she has
been feeling, she for the most part has felt great andbeen feeling, she for the most part has felt great and
sometimes it's hard to believe that she even has asometimes it's hard to believe that she even has a
wonderful time of the year, he hears all our prayers andwonderful time of the year, he hears all our prayers and
has given Mel and her family lots of "BLESSINGS"!!has given Mel and her family lots of "BLESSINGS"!!
• God BLESS all of you and everyone have a MERRYGod BLESS all of you and everyone have a MERRY
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!

40. • Merry Christmas to all my wonderful family and friends!! IMerry Christmas to all my wonderful family and friends!! I
am so blessed to have so many supportive people in myam so blessed to have so many supportive people in my
life. Just wanted to Thank everyone for being solife. Just wanted to Thank everyone for being so
generous to our family the past month. THANKS SOgenerous to our family the past month. THANKS SO
MUCH AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!!!MUCH AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!!!

41. HAPPY NEW YEARHAPPY NEW YEAR
• Hi all!! This is Melanie giving a little update on things.Hi all!! This is Melanie giving a little update on things.
Had a quiet but wonderful Christmas. Spent the day withHad a quiet but wonderful Christmas. Spent the day with
my wonderful kids and husband!! Went Sunday to mymy wonderful kids and husband!! Went Sunday to my
dad's to celebrate. My nephew Blake was wonderful anddad's to celebrate. My nephew Blake was wonderful and
brought me the entire last week for all my appointments.brought me the entire last week for all my appointments.
Thanks so much Blake!! I am in the home stretch withThanks so much Blake!! I am in the home stretch with
my treatments. I had my last chemo on Tuesday,my treatments. I had my last chemo on Tuesday,
December 30. I return to Sioux Falls tomorrow aroundDecember 30. I return to Sioux Falls tomorrow around
7:00 to have another internal radiation. I will go Tuesday7:00 to have another internal radiation. I will go Tuesday
and have an external radiation. Then I have two moreand have an external radiation. Then I have two more
internal radiations left on January 8 and January 12.internal radiations left on January 8 and January 12.
After everything it is hard to believe the treatments areAfter everything it is hard to believe the treatments are
almost finished. After the treatments the Doctors saidalmost finished. After the treatments the Doctors said
they will evaluate how things are going. They told me thatthey will evaluate how things are going. They told me that
they will wait three months and then we will see if they dothey will wait three months and then we will see if they do
some kind of scan to see if the tumor shrank. With God'ssome kind of scan to see if the tumor shrank. With God's
grace it did!! Thanks to everyone for your continuedgrace it did!! Thanks to everyone for your continued
prayers! Hope everyone has a happy and healthy 2015!!!prayers! Hope everyone has a happy and healthy 2015!!!

42. MELANIE’S CERTIFICATION OFMELANIE’S CERTIFICATION OF
COMPLETION…COMPLETION…

43. TEAM MELANIE SUPPORTERSTEAM MELANIE SUPPORTERS

44. Wrestling Team Supporting MelWrestling Team Supporting Mel

45. The Last Treament!!!!!The Last Treament!!!!!
• In Sioux Falls with Mel for her LASTIn Sioux Falls with Mel for her LAST
treatment LOVE being able to share thistreatment LOVE being able to share this
time with her u got this!!!! U have Come atime with her u got this!!!! U have Come a
long way and so proud of u u are onelong way and so proud of u u are one
strong courageous woman!!!!!strong courageous woman!!!!!

46. TEAM MELTEAM MEL