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Melissa’s father died of esophageal cancer in 2006. He suffered from heartburn for many years and was never informed of the link to cancer. None of his doctors suggested that he be scoped until it was too late. He was diagnosed in December of 2005 and died in May of 2006.

Her father is the reason she got involved with ECAN and Stories to Save Lives. Although she can’t change what has happened, she believes the only way to move forward and prevent this from happening to others is to raise awareness. She strongly believe that getting the word out that heartburn can cause cancer will save many lives.