Call for community to support Mel's family with funeral costs

Mel was first diagnosed with brain cancer in 2000, and in 2013, despite her own health issues started an annual fundraising event, Mel's Go Grey in May, helping raise money for research into the condition.

The event is held every year and has raised literally thousands of dollars for the Brain Tumour Alliance Australia and Brainstorm, a clinic that studies brain cancer at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

Gerry Tye, a family friend, created the GoFundMe page for Mel's family.

He set a target of $20,000 to assist with funeral costs, and said any additional funding will be donated to Brainstorm for Brain Cancer Research as per Mel's wishes.

In the initial post, Mr Tye said as Mel entered the final stages of her life she needed the support of the community.

"As you know, Mel is a beautifully stubborn woman with a heart of sunflowers that gives till the sun goes down to others and brain cancer," he wrote.

"In doing so it has virtually left them with nothing. In planning ahead for her Celebration of Life we need your help.This means funding for Mel and her funeral arrangements."

Sharyn Semmens, one of Mel's close friends said Mel will be remembered as a person who would go out her of way to help people.

She said after being diagnosed with brain cancer 18 years ago, she did some research and found that unlike other cancers, there wasn't a lot of fundraising for bran cancer, and she decided to do something about it.

"That's how Mel's Go Grey in May started," she said.

But Mrs Semmens that was just one way Mel helped others in the community.

"She did things for people with mobility issues and helped others with cancer."

"She also brought the city to the bush, she was instrumental in getting video link ups to specialists [in Sydney] set up for people who couldn't get to Sydney.

"And any fundraising she did came from her own pocket," she said.

Mrs Semmens described Mel as "a strong character who was loved by all."

Mel's funeral will be held on Friday, December 20 at the Bathurst Uniting Church, 140A William St at 2pm.

People are asked to please wear something yellow and bright.

Those wishing to donate to cover Mel's funeral costs can do so via the GoFundMe page Mel's Grey in May - Mel Needs Your Help or donate via direct deposit at Newcastle Permanent Bank BSB 650 000, account number 534737808.