Mélissa, 39, mother of two children and originally from Booischot, in Flanders, saw her life turned upside down on August 20. During an operation to remove a brain tumor, a complication deprived her spinal cord of oxygen, greatly reducing her chances of walking again on her own: doctors estimate this probability at only 12%. Since then, Mélissa has undergone intensive rehabilitation at the UZ Leuven center, on the Pellenberg campus, to regain maximum autonomy. Despite the obstacles, her determination remains strong, and she remains hopeful for the future.
To support her in this ordeal, her loved ones launched a crowdfunding campaign, which was quickly relayed by the community. “Mélissa and Joery, her husband, never asked for help. They are always there for others, but today it is our turn to support them,” explains Kevin, a close friend, in the columns of the GVA. The collection aims to finance the renovation work on their house, now necessary to meet Mélissa’s new mobility needs. These transformations include the installation of an elevator, an adapted bathroom, an accessible bed and a ramp, for a total cost estimated at 70,000 euros.
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Since the launch of the campaign, the mobilization has been massive: in addition to friends and family, parents of students and colleagues of Mélissa and Joery have mobilized. “Joery’s colleagues have already raised funds to cover their meals until the end of the year,” says Kevin. Waffle and cookie sales are also planned to help finance the work.
Despite this difficult situation, Mélissa remains optimistic and continues to be involved with her children. “She keeps smiling and shows incredible strength. Even on Sundays, she reviews her children’s lessons via her iPad,” adds Kevin.
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