Meet 2015 Merit Mother, Melissa Wayt

Melissa has two Bachelors Degrees and two Masters Degrees.  Her Masters Degree in Forensic Psychology led her to a second Masters Degree in Social Work.  After achieving multiple Educational Degrees, she worked as a Victims Advocate for Spanish Speakers with the Provo City Police Department.  She then worked as a social worker for the Provo School District.  Melissa supported her husband through Law School before she became a stay at home mother of 3 children.

On a daily basis, she sacrifices her time, talents, and health to raise her children.  She stimulates their minds, teaches and prepares them for their impending education, and spends almost every waking hour researching and preparing new ways to augment their well being and motivate their thirst for knowledge.

Melissa has been an inspiration to those around her and has humbled others with her optimistic attitude despite overwhelming opposition.  She was placed on bed rest in a hospital setting due to complications before the birth of her 3rd son.  The work she put into staying connected to her two boys at home was amazing.  She would have surprises for them when they came to visit her.  Many were things they could do all together while the boys were visiting.  A lot were things that would teach the boys a new skill or reinforce those they were learning.  She also worked to talk to them daily and let them know how much she loved and missed them.

Melissa hopes to volunteer some of her time helping other PPROM mothers cope with the different challenges and fears associated with that hardship.  With her education and experience, she will be able to provide invaluable advice based on experience, as well as comfort to all mothers facing similar hardships.  She recognizes how fortunate her family has been to have overcome such a difficult obstacle resulting in a beautiful, healthy, baby boy, and has the educational experience to assist mothers who have not been as fortunate, to remain hopeful and stay positive.