Ellen Celebrates a Teacher’s Lasting Legacy and Her Family’s Plan to Pay it Forward

The Wexler family from Marietta, GA dealt with tragedy by making an effort to help others, and they've captured the attention of countless people -- including Ellen.

Michelle Wexler was just 28 years old when she was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called uterine sarcoma. Doctors had to remove her uterus, small intestine, appendix and an ovary, and she had to undergo months of chemotherapy and invasive surgeries in order to save her life.

Michelle had a loving family to see her through this difficult time, including mother Wanda, father Eddie and younger brother David. She also had the love and support of her colleagues and students at Mimosa Elementary, where she was a second-grade teacher and had recently been named Teacher of the Year.

Michelle and her mother, two huge Ellen fans, watched the show every day in the hospital, and it never failed to put them in a better mood. Michelle adopted the personal motto "Just keep swimming" (said by Ellen's character Dory from "Finding Nemo") to keep her focused on the future.

Michelle sadly lost her battle with cancer on December 6, 2013. Her generous spirit lives on in her friends, family and students who are doing everything they can do honor her memory. The Good News blog sat down with Michelle's family to learn about all the wonderful things she accomplished in her 28 years, particularly the amazing work she did as a teacher.

The Wexlers have started a scholarship program to pay tribute to Michelle's tireless work in education, providing college funds to students at Lassiter High School, which Michelle attended as a teen and where Wanda currently teaches. Ellen wanted to help this family in their quest to pay it forward, and she surprised the Wexlers with a $500 contribution.

The Wexlers are still struggling to pay for Michelle's medical bills. If you'd like to help them as they help some amazing students pay for their college education, visit their fundraising page.

More of the Good News:
Dancing Cancer Patient Shares Her Positivity with Ellen
Little Boy with Cancer Wants to Live to Help Others
Teacher Gives Heartwarming Lesson in Kindness