MELINDA’S Marchiano BIO
Melinda Marchiano established her business, Happy Quail, in 2009 at the age of fifteen. Her reasons for starting her business were not usual. Melinda became CEO of Happy Quail so that she would be able to publish the story she had written while she was recovering from cancer– without the harsh editing of a big publishing house. Believing her story needed to remain intact in order to truly help others with cancer, Melinda’s Happy Quail published Grace in October 2009. This first edition won two 2010 International Book Awards. In January 2010, Melinda began working with Greenleaf Book Group on her second edition, Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery which Happy Quail published in October 2010. The second edition is a finalist in the 2010 ForeWord Book of the Year Awards (winners to be announced in June.) Melinda is a passionate childhood cancer advocate, speaking at schools, cancer centers, cancer fundraisers, as well as churches and business events. Her associations include 2011 Livestrong Leader, United Way Youth Grant Recipient for her program Literacy & Advocacy Challenge, Imerman Angel, and dancer with the Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo and San Luis Jazz.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW
1. What prompted you to start your website?
Melinda: I started my website to raise awareness about childhood cancer and to share my book/story.
How do you manage areas of your life (school, hobbies, sports, family time, friends) that are most important to you?
I prioritize and try not to spread myself too thin. The most meaningful things come first… like faith and family.
2. You’ve been so successful with your book and helping others through your site.. What else would you like to get involved with over the next few years?
Melinda: Thank you, Edith. I hope to become closer to and more involved with childhood cancer organizations such as Alex’s Lemonade Stand, St. Baldrick’s, and CureSearch.
3. What’s been your proudest achievement?
Melinda: Beating cancer.
4. If you had the opportunity to bring all members of your school into one room, what message would you share with them?
Melinda: I love this question Edith. I would share that life is precious, and we must not waste a single moment. Be good to one another and fulfill your potential because our time here is short.
5. Who has been the most influential person to you?
Melinda: My mom has been most influential because of her strength, faith, and character!
To purchase Melinda’s inspiring book, click the link below.
Social Media For Melinda Marchiano:
Beyond Success Online 
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