It was a scene of tender love and care – a precious moment in life witnessed by just a few, when a simple, but special, dream was granted.
From the day she was born, Melissa Schmid, daughter of Kate and Mark Houg of Deer River, has endured numerous attacks to her body. The scary list of health ailments, infection and disease that has plagued the young Grand Rapids woman is more than someone even three-times her age may never expect to live through. Yet, at just 22 years old, Melissa has weathered all of the storms – and survived with a smile on her face and a feisty independence that has others at awe.
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More travel with Tony was something Melissa was hoping would happen before her health declined. This spring, her doctor at St. Mary’s wrote to “the Angels at the Dream Foundation,” recommending they grant the Schmids’ wish to visit Universal Studios in Florida together.
Unfortunately, Melissa’s illness progressed too quickly for travel. However, the national dream-granting organization for terminally-ill adults didn’t give up on her. On May 5, a dream date was arranged for Melissa and her sweetheart. A fancy stretch limousine arrived at their rural home ready to transport the two to town for a romantic dinner donated by the Forest Lake Steakhouse. Dream Foundation also provided a basket of gifts, including a pretty bouquet donated by Shaw Florists.
