Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Carroll.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
After my mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer (cancer spread to her bones, lungs, and liver), I went with her to a chemo treatment. Seeing the other patients of all different ages, in various stages of treatment and even some alone was an emotional experience. I did a bit of research and put together gift bags to hand out at my mom’s next appointment. The patients were so appreciative, and you could see how much it brightened their spirits. One patient, in particular, was a man staying in a separate room due to health complications. He wheeled his chemo pole all the way down the hall, hugged my mom and me with tears in his eyes, telling us that we’d made his month. That day and those patients really inspired me. My mom passed away five months later, which pushed me to want to do more for cancer patients and turn those gift bags into something bigger.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Definitely not easy! My background is in Telecom, so building a business from scratch didn’t come naturally. Learning to connect with the right people to fill the gaps in my knowledge was definitely a challenge early on. As was being patient with myself and Handled with Care’s growth.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Handled with Care story. Tell us more about it.
Handled with Care curates care packages for adult and pediatric cancer patients undergoing chemo treatments, with contents addressing side effects chemo patients endure. We currently have 12 care packages with varying themes such as bravery, courage, fantasyland, and dinosaurs, along with the Cup of Courage, our exclusive mugs co-designed with cancer survivors. I’m proud to provide care packages that help both the cancer patient as well as the person gifting it. Cancer warriors are fighting their toughest battle and while they don’t always feel it, I want them to know how brave they are. And even more importantly, they’re not alone. Treatment is isolating and really takes an emotional toll on patients. Each care package is purchased (and put together) with a whole lot of love, and patients feel that love and support when they receive one of our care packages. At the same time, a cancer diagnosis affects everyone, and I know firsthand how helpless you feel watching a loved one struggle through cancer treatment. When someone gifts this care package, they know they’re truly helping, which is also so important.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I think losing a parent to cancer can probably be considered bad luck. On the other hand, I am lucky to have found a positive way to channel my grief. Handled with Care is truly a labor of love. To be able to help cancer warriors and their loved ones that gift them a care package is incredibly fulfilling.
Pricing:
- Cup of Courage mugs – $20
- Adult care packages – $38-$72
- Pediatric care packages – $40-$60
Contact Info:
- Website: www.handledwithcare.org
- Email: melanie@handledwithcare.org
- Instagram: @hwcpackage
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/hwcpackage
Image Credit:
Micah Nunley at White Unicorn Agency
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