“Options Bring Hope” Research Grant, dedicated to Lindsay Zubeck

For the past two years, the Miller Family, along with their circle of friends and the unwavering support of their community, embarked on a remarkable journey to shed light on a little-known battle: Ocular Melanoma. Their mission was twofold – to raise awareness and to secure funds for the Options Bring Hope Research Grant. At the heart of this endeavor was their resilient daughter, Lindsay, a beacon of optimism even in the face of adversity.

Lindsay, an OM thriver, has an uncanny ability to find silver linings in life’s darkest clouds. Her unwavering spirit was put to the test when she received the devastating news that her cancer had spread to her liver. However, amidst the storm, a glimmer of hope emerged: the first FDA-approved treatment for OM had just become a reality. But, here’s the catch – only 50% of OM patients meet the criteria for this groundbreaking therapy. The other half, like Lindsay, are left navigating the labyrinth of clinical trials and experimental treatments, clinging to the hope of finding a life-extending solution.

Yet, Lindsay and her family chose to focus not on the hurdles they faced but on the boundless possibilities that lay ahead. In Lindsay’s own words, “with options comes hope.” Thus, the “Options Bring Hope” research grant, dedicated to Lindsay Zubeck, was born. Its primary goal was to propel research efforts aimed at advancing treatment options for all patients grappling with metastatic uveal melanoma.

For the past two years, the Millers hosted the “Options Bring Hope” fundraiser at Chicken N Pickle in Kansas City. Friends and family eagerly gathered, forming a united front to bolster this noble cause. In this short span, they managed to raise a staggering $300,000 in support of the grant. Together, they carved a path towards a brighter future for the OM community, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of melanoma research.

The event was nothing short of spectacular; tickets sold out swiftly, and the room (and pickle ball courts) buzzed with an atmosphere charged with passion and love. It was a testament to the power of collective action. The Millers were overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and the entire OM community. In their relentless pursuit of hope, they had become a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path for countless others affected by this rare and relentless disease.