Mission Statement:

The CHEMO Bag organization, in partnership with the generosity of our community, corporate sponsors and volunteers, is committed to providing Bag of Hope care bags filled with items to provide comfort to the men and women in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas undergoing chemotherapy treatments. 

Message from Our Founders

Hi! Welcome to The Bag of Hope website. Thank you for taking the time to learn about what we do and how you can help. 

My name is Leah and I started The CHEMO Bag organization along with my daughter Michelle. I am a breast cancer “survivor”. I know how it feels to be diagnosed with, and treated for, cancer. I have been through two surgeries, 6 rounds of chemo, 33 visits to radiation therapy and a year’s worth of Herceptin infusions. I understand the emotional and physical pain of cancer treatments. I understand the fear that follows you every day, even when you have been told you are “fine”. 

I was an active woman the day of my diagnosis. I loved all things outdoors; lakes, rivers, kayaking, hiking, geocaching and biking. On the day of my diagnosis I felt that I would never again be the woman that I was when I woke up that morning.

And I was right. I am not that same woman I was on April 20, 2012. I am new. And improved. Cancer took many things from me but in return it gave me things that I didn’t have. New friends, a new way of looking at the world around me and a new love for my life.

I continue now to do the activities I loved to do before my diagnosis and I do them with a greater appreciation for the moment I am in. The CHEMO Bag is my way of giving back to a community that was so giving to me in my time of need.

Our CHEMO Bag President

 Melissa Healy 

 President, The CHEMO Bag Inc. 

With over 22 years of extensive experience in the financial services sector at PNC N.A., Melissa Healy has cultivated a distinguished career that culminates in her current role as Assistant Vice President and Client Service Advisor for PNC Private Bank. In her previous position as a Branch Manager, which she held for 14 years, she demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep commitment to client satisfaction, consistently driving performance and enhancing service delivery.

Melissa is deeply dedicated to providing an unparalleled level of service to her clients and her team at Private Bank while actively engaging in meaningful community contributions. Her professional ethos is grounded in the belief that exceptional service goes beyond transactions — it is about building lasting relationships and fostering financial well-being for all her clients.

In addition to her commendable work at PNC, Melissa has devoted over 11 years to The CHEMO Bag Inc., initially stepping into the role of Secretary before advancing to President. In her leadership capacity, she has been pivotal in significantly expanding the organization’s outreach, transforming its impact from the local Lehigh Valley area to 24 infusion centers across Eastern Pennsylvania. This growth not only reflects her strategic vision and passion for the organization but also highlights her unwavering commitment to the mission of supporting cancer patients during their treatment journey.

Melissa’s personal experiences have profoundly shaped her dedication to The CHEMO Bag. Having faced the heart-wrenching loss of her mother to cancer and supporting family members battling the disease, she possesses a unique understanding of the emotional and physical challenges that accompany such journeys. This empathy fuels her passion for ensuring that the “Bag of Hope” comfort bags are delivered to as many chemotherapy patients as possible, providing them with much-needed support and encouragement during their treatment.

Outside of her demanding professional commitments at PNC Bank and her impactful work with The CHEMO Bag, Melissa cherishes her time spent engaging in leisure activities such as golfing. She deeply values the moments spent with her family, friends, and grandchildren, viewing these relationships as integral to her personal fulfillment. Through her multifaceted roles as a financial leader, community advocate, and devoted family member, Melissa Healy exemplifies a profound commitment to enhancing the lives of those around her, making a lasting difference in both her professional and personal spheres.

Our CHEMO Bag Vice President

Vice President

Jerry Verrechio

Jerry is currently serving as the Integrations Manager for the Growth Solutions Department at a prominent Point of Sale Company in Center Valley, PA, brings over four years of dedicated experience to the organization. This professional has been actively involved with The CHEMO Bag since 2019, demonstrating a commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by cancer.

Recruited initially as a general board member, Jerry quickly distinguished themselves through their contributions and was subsequently elevated to the position of Member at Large. In this role, they play a crucial part in the organization’s mission, which focuses on alleviating the psychological burden that cancer imposes on patients. By providing a Bag of Hope to individuals on their first day of chemotherapy, they help offer comfort, support, and a sense of community at a critical junction in these patients’ lives.

The work done by The CHEMO Bag resonates deeply with this professional, not only because of its vital mission but also for personal reasons that fuel their passion and dedication. Their involvement with the organization is a heartfelt commitment to improving the experiences of cancer patients during an incredibly challenging time.

In practical terms, Jerry supports both the executive and general boards of The CHEMO Bag by providing essential technical support, strategic guidance, and comprehensive marketing initiatives. Their efforts are directed towards expanding the organization’s outreach, ensuring that the impactful message and services of The CHEMO Bag reach a broader audience. Through their multifaceted contributions, they exemplify the spirit of community service and dedication to enhancing the lives of those facing cancer treatment. 

Our CHEMO Bag Secretary

Traci Meckes

Secretary

Traci Meckes currently holds the position of Senior Project Specialist at Aesculap, Inc., where she has dedicated 17 years of her career to advancing the company’s objectives and enhancing project outcomes. With a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to excellence, Traci has been an invaluable asset to Aesculap, Inc.

Since 2017, Traci has been engaged with The CHEMO Bag organization, initially joining as a board member. Her dedication and leadership skills led her to be appointed as the Secretary in 2022. In this capacity, Traci effectively manages a range of administrative responsibilities that are crucial to the smooth operation of The CHEMO Bag. She diligently checks and responds to emails and Facebook messages on a daily basis, ensuring timely communication and fostering community engagement.

Traci plays a pivotal role in coordinating with Infusion Centers on a monthly basis. She is responsible for organizing the bag count requests and overseeing the logistics involved in coordinating the drivers for the timely deliveries of Care Bags. Her meticulous attention to detail and organizational prowess ensure that cancer patients receive their Care Bags promptly and efficiently.

For Traci, the opportunity to assist in providing Care Bags for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy is not only a professional responsibility but also a deeply rewarding and humbling experience. She takes great pride in contributing to a cause that has a profound impact on the lives of individuals facing the challenges of cancer treatment, exemplifying her commitment to compassion and support in the community. Through her efforts, Traci enhances the mission of The CHEMO Bag, making a significant difference in the lives of those in need.

Our CHEMO Bag Treasurer

Greg Little

Treasurer

Greg Little has been a valued member of The CHEMO Bag organization, serving as Treasurer since August 2022. In this critical role, he is entrusted with maintaining all financial records, ensuring accuracy and transparency in the organization’s financial activities. His responsibilities extend to the preparation and distribution of comprehensive financial reports to all relevant stakeholders, providing essential insights into the organization’s fiscal health. Additionally, Mr. Little is responsible for the meticulous preparation of the organization’s annual tax filings, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while optimizing financial strategies.

Beyond his financial responsibilities, Mr. Little actively participates in monthly bag fill events, where he takes great satisfaction in working closely alongside his fellow board members and dedicated volunteers. These gatherings not only foster a spirit of camaraderie but also align with his personal commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients served by The CHEMO Bag.

Mr. Little is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the state of Pennsylvania, a designation that underscores his expertise in financial management and accountability. He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an emphasis in Corporate Finance from Pennsylvania State University, equipping him with a robust foundation in financial analysis and strategic decision-making.

In addition to his pivotal role with The CHEMO Bag, Mr. Little is currently employed as the Chief Financial Officer of Berks Counseling Center, a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic and Integrated Community Wellness Clinic located in downtown Reading, PA. In this capacity, he is responsible for leading financial operations and supporting the organization’s mission to provide vital mental health services to the community.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Mr. Little is actively involved in his local community. He dedicates his spare time to coaching boys’ recreational basketball and teaching Sunday School at West Lawn United Methodist Church in West Lawn, PA. These activities reflect his commitment to youth development and community engagement, showcasing his belief in the importance of mentorship and service. Through his roles both within The CHEMO Bag and in the broader community, Mr. Little exemplifies a holistic approach to leadership and service, making a lasting impact on those around him.

Our Member at Large

Lisa Kresge

Member at Large

Lisa Kresge is a highly experienced Senior Analyst currently employed by Lehigh Valley Health Network, a distinguished part of Jefferson Health. With a remarkable tenure of 26 years at Lehigh Valley Health Network, Lisa has developed a profound understanding of healthcare systems and patient care dynamics. In February 2022, she joined The Chemo Bag organization as a General Board member and, through her unwavering commitment and exemplary contributions, advanced to the position of Member at Large in February 2025.

In her role with The Chemo Bag, Lisa actively supports the organization by delivering essential supplies to two Infusion Centers on a monthly basis. She plays a vital part in the process of assembling the Bags of Hope, ensuring that each package meets the specific needs of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Recently, Lisa has taken on additional responsibilities, including assisting with the inventory management of supplies required for these bags and contributing her efforts to fundraising events aimed at enhancing the impact of the organization.

Lisa finds immense fulfillment in her contributions to cancer patients, as she is dedicated to providing comfort and support through the Bag of Hope initiative. This work is particularly meaningful to her, as she is not only a supporter but also a survivor herself, making her commitment heartfelt and deeply personal. Through her endeavors, Lisa exemplifies compassion and resilience, striving to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing the challenges of cancer treatment.

The CHEMO Bag Inc is a non-profit 501 (c)3 organization, with an IRS identification number of 46-2699108. Donations to The CHEMO Bag are tax deductible in the U.S.