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.
And, in 2020, Melissa launched what’s become her “signature” event called “Bourbon for Boobs.” Last year, this event, along with several other third party events at her gym, local boutiques and restaurants, raised more than $85,000. The goal was $60,000. Those funds benefited 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, diagnosis and treatment. Her 4th annual event is slated for October 26, 2023 at the Foundry at Judson Mill in downtown Greenville. The goal for this year is $106,000, in honor of her mother’s six-year battle with stage IV breast cancer.
Her efforts over the years do not go unnoticed having received an award from the newly created Upstate Real Producers magazine for her community service in 2021. And 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 & research in honor and memory of her mother.
