Melissa’s can-do attitude only strengthens in adversity. When her mother was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer in August 2008, Melissa pushed back by getting involved in fundraising for research and awareness. She was an active volunteer for over a decade for the Susan G. Komen Foundation, serving in a variety of roles, including Co-Chair for the Race for the Cure several times.
On July 26, 2014, Melissa’s mother Sammie Sweeney-Ferrigan lost her battle to cancer. Now, more than ever, Melissa’s passion to raise awareness and support for those fighting is boundless.
Prior to her mother’s passing, she and her family created TEAM SAMMIE.
In 2020, Melissa launched what’s become her “signature” event called “Bourbon for Boobs.” The funds benefit the Bon Secours Pearlie Harris Center for Breast Health at St. Francis here in Greenville, SC. Specifically, it will help those in our community who do not have the necessary funds for screenings, ultrasounds, MRIs, and diagnosis. She then took the next step in her journey to ensure the legacy of her mother by creating the TEAM SAMMIE Breast Cancer Foundation which earned its 501(c)(3) status in December 2024. Her 7th annual event is slated for October 22, 2026, at the Foundry at Judson Mill in downtown Greenville. In 2025, this event coupled with a series of other community events raised $260,000.
Her efforts over the years have not gone unnoticed. In fact, the St. Francis Foundation presented Melissa with news at her event that her mother will receive a permanent plaque in the lobby of the Pearlie Harris Center for Breast Health. The unveiling was March 6, 2025. In 2021 she received a community service award from Upstate Real Producers Magazine. Also in 2021, her own company, BHHS C. Dan Joyner Realtors, bestowed her the President’s Award for not only her commitment to her profession but her dedication and passion for breast cancer awareness and research in honor and memory of her mother. In 2023 at the Pearls and Pumps event, Pearlie Harris presented Melissa with the Tonya Gibson Spirit Award which embodies Melissa’s tireless passion for a cause so close to her heart.
