From Our Grant Recipients
Laurie Robinson
Laurie Robinson is the primary caregiver for her mom, ocular melanoma patient Margaret Childs. Through the generosity of Eye on Grace supporters, we have been able to fund three treatment trips for them so far. One of the things that makes Eye on Grace unique is our commitment to covering travel not only for the patient, but also for a caregiver. We know how important it is to have a helper and advocate close by – especially when treatment takes place far from home. This is Laurie’s story, in her own words:
“Mom's journey with OM started in 2021, when she was first diagnosed. She received brachytherapy in Greenville, SC, which is about 2 1/2 hours from our homes. After that initial diagnosis and treatment, she received yearly scans and rechecks in Greenville. We learned that her cancer had metastasized to the liver and a few bones in the spring of 2025. We have been traveling for treatments since May 2025.
Travel has been a huge challenge. We first traveled approximately four hours one way to north Georgia for histotripsy. In June, we began traveling once a week to Duke in NC for Kimmtrak infusions. That was six hours of traveling in a day. We have flown three times to Philadelphia for consultation and directed liver treatments since September. We would never be able to afford those trips to Philly without the Eye on Grace Foundation. Flights and hotels are so expensive. Mom and I are both so grateful for the financial support, as it is one less thing to worry about during this very difficult journey.
Serving as a caregiver is mentally and physically challenging. I must balance working, taking care of my family, and being my mother's primary caregiver. It can be exhausting and overwhelming at times.
This disease is an emotional roller coaster. There is no cure, but thankfully, there are treatments that can extend lives. With this cancer, most people have to travel for treatment. Many oncologists aren’t aware of the latest treatments.
I cannot adequately express how eternally grateful I am to the donors who support the Eye on Grace Foundation. Because of their generosity, I've been given more time with my mother, and time is the most precious gift.”
Your donation to Eye on Grace directly benefits families like Laurie and Margaret. Help us keep saying ‘yes’ to those who must travel for ocular melanoma treatment.