Melissa Parete of Summerfield Drive has called Lancaster home for the past 10 years, building a life centered around family, community, and connection. Alongside her husband, both originally from the Buffalo area, they chose Lancaster as the place to raise their two children, Kara, 16, and Caleb, 14.

Their days are often filled with competitive hockey and lacrosse schedules, and when they are not cheering from the sidelines, the family enjoys golfing together as members of Lancaster Country Club.

But beyond their busy family life, Melissa has found a deeper purpose through her involvement with Lyme WNY, an organization dedicated to raising awareness and supporting individuals affected by Lyme disease.

Melissa was first introduced to Lyme WNY through her friend and the organization’s founder, Rebecca Roll. The mission immediately resonated with her on a personal level.

“My cousin suffers from chronic Lyme,” Melissa shared. “She has struggled navigating the healthcare system and advocating for her health. Learning about this foundation validated all the struggles my family has gone through, and knowing there were many others who are also in this fight, and they didn’t fight alone.”

That personal connection inspired Melissa and her family to get involved in a meaningful way. Through fundraising, volunteering, and helping spread awareness, they have become active supporters of the organization’s mission.

Running a nonprofit like Lyme WNY depends heavily on community involvement, and Melissa’s family has stepped in wherever they can. Her daughter Kara has participated in Ladies Lace Up Against Lyme at HarborCenter, helping raise both funds and awareness, and has also volunteered at the organization’s annual 5K event, something she plans to do again this year on May 31.

For Melissa, the impact of the organization is clear.

“I have seen firsthand the value Lyme WNY brings by creating a strong support system that connects individuals and families who might otherwise feel alone,” she said. “It provides a sense of community, understanding, and hope while helping people navigate the many unknowns that come with Lyme disease.”

She hopes to see continued progress, especially in the recognition of chronic Lyme at both the medical and legislative levels. Increased awareness and validation, she believes, would lead to better access to care and treatment for those who are suffering.

What many people may not realize is just how close to home this issue truly is.

“Many residents of Summerfield Farms have been directly affected by Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses,” Melissa explained. “They are probably reading this now, knowing it was them. Lyme disease is not just a wooded or rural issue; it is an everywhere issue.”

Ticks can be found in neighborhoods, parks, and everyday outdoor spaces, making prevention, awareness, and early treatment critical for the entire community.

Through her involvement, Melissa continues to help bring visibility to an issue that affects more families than many realize while also offering hope, connection, and support to those navigating it.