Orlando, Fla. – When Melissa Hilliker (Kroll) and her husband, Dana, thought their family was complete, life surprised them with the news of a third child. Already parents to Sydney, now 13, and Josie, 11, the couple learned in 2021 that Melissa was expecting a daughter. Melissa, 37, embraced the prospect with joy, devoting herself to a healthy lifestyle, balancing CrossFit, nutrition, and prenatal care.

However, at her 20-week ultrasound, a suspicious lump prompted further testing, leading to a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer. In December 2021, the Hillikers’ journey took an unexpected and challenging turn. Due to her pregnancy, traditional treatments like radiation and hormone therapy were ruled out, and Melissa began chemotherapy in her third trimester, completing four rounds.

After the birth of her daughter, Savannah, Melissa continued her battle, undergoing surgery to remove her right breast and six lymph nodes. Her commitment to her family never wavered, despite the demanding treatment schedule and the painful toll the disease took. Her resilient spirit inspired those around her, including her husband Dana, a detective with the City of Orlando Police Department, and their daughters.

Professionally, Melissa was celebrated for her compassionate work as a pediatric cardiac critical care nurse, known for her warmth and dedication to young patients and their families. Her impact reached beyond her profession, resonating with her church community at Lakeside Church, where she and Dana are active members, and the many lives she touched as a devoted friend, mother, and wife.

On October 21, 2024, Melissa passed away at 39, surrounded by her family. Her legacy of resilience, courage, and faith endures, urging others to live with purpose and cherish each day.

The Hilliker family invites the community to remember Melissa’s legacy and extend their prayers and support, honoring a remarkable woman who fought bravely and loved fiercely. There is also a gofundme to support the family at this time. Out of the goal of $30,000 a total of $24,200 has been raised at the time of this writing. No pressure to donate but this is the link in case you do. https://www.gofundme.com/f/honor-melissa-hillikers-legacy-support-her-family?fbclid=IwY2xjawGIjX1leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHftCLtQ13sbmQUkrSjvLDkiQ9y1ZKtM9MCWkZqK_hPp7AWx9ltYY_XgIiQ_aem_DkcrbFdgXqkf2gOPzljFLw