Amy Tetrault was diagnosed with Ocular Melanoma in the fall of 2021, and there are no OM specialists where she lives – a small town just north of Syracuse, NY. She was referred to Philadelphia for care under Dr. Carol Shields and Dr. Marlana Orloff. Because her biopsy indicated a high risk for metastasis, Amy had scans every three months.

“Between scan visits, eye and oncology visits, and biopsies, my husband and I have made the five-hour trip to Philadelphia over 30 times. To save money on hotels and minimize time away from our daughters and work, we’ve often made this round-trip in one day. The impact on our work and family has been difficult, and we’ve missed many important events for our daughters Audrey and Abigail,” Amy says.

In the spring of 2025, Amy learned that her melanoma had metastasized. It was also around this time that she learned about the Eye on Grace Foundation. In consultation with her doctor in Philadelphia, Amy joined a clinical trial in Buffalo, NY, which is about three hours from their home.

“This travel is easier; however, it still comes with costs like gas, parking, tolls, and food while you’re at your visit, and occasional overnights. I do still travel to Philadelphia for follow-ups with Dr. Orloff and Dr. Sheilds. Support from the Eye on Grace Foundation gives us some peace of mind about the financial burden of travel related to this disease. Just as important, it has also helped us feel like we have a community who understands what we are going through and supports us with prayer and guidance,” Amy says. 

A diagnosis like Ocular Melanoma is all-consuming life event. It affects your family, your friendships, career, and on many days, even your ability to be yourself.  

“I want people to know how important the support of loved ones really is as we deal with this disease. We need it not only on bad days but on good days, because those are the times we most want feel normal and like ourselves,” says Amy.