Aid Laetitia Armstrong “Miss Tish” in Her Time of Need

My name is Bryn Lyon and I am a mother of 3 children and I rely on childcare providers. I want to introduce you to The Mother who has cared for all three of my children from infancy and beyond. Laetitia M. Armstrong was born on September 14, 1972 in Nashville TN (if quick math isn’t your thing that makes her 52 years young ). She began working when she was 14 years old as junior counselor at the YMCA. By 18 years old ‘Miss Tish’ as we fondly call her was a full time teacher at a daycare facility and a new mother to a baby boy (she would go on to have two more babies both girls). Ms. Laetitia Armstrong was a protective mother so working at child care facilities was a great way to ensure her babies were safe while simultaneously earning a paycheck. However long after Ms. Tish’s kids were grown she remained in the field of childcare and this was and is because of her love for children. Laetitia Armstrong has likely cared for over a 1000 babies, toddlers and preschoolers since she began her career.

When I met Laetitia it was 2018 and she was the teacher in my son Bosco’s classroom and her co-teacher was her daughter Daisha R Zirker. Tish and Daisha have become part of my village and I know that I am not alone when I say that they are the people who have brought me peace and confidence when I am at work. When Miss Tish is caring for your children you can guarantee they are getting the same care and nurturing she gave her own babies.

Unfortunately in October of 2024 after months of excruciating pain and suffering she was diagnosed with stage four intestinal cancer. By November of 2024 she was no longer able to work and she was in and out of the hospital with horrific symptoms. The prognosis was grim. But here’s the thing about Miss Tish her whole life has been a test of strength and faith. She chose and still chooses to fight. The chemotherapy is harsh and it knocks her out for a good 7 days. The good news is that she’s tolerating the chemotherapy and so far there has been symptom improvement. She wont be able to stop treatment, there is no cure for her condition. Her immune system will be compromised indefinitely. She continues to face each day with bravery and faith.

Up until now Miss Tish has been able to patchwork together enough money to stay afloat. With social security disability benefits pending, Miss Tish has exhausted her reserves and sold many assets. Laetitia’s daughter Daisha has significantly reduced her hours at the daycare center so that she can care for her mom. The bills and transportation costs of two households have been stretched to the limit.

I am asking anyone who can afford to donate any amount to consider giving no amount is too small. Asking for help is new to Laetitia, so I am asking on behalf of all the children and parents who have been lucky enough to cross paths with Miss Tish to help us reach our goal. This money will be critical for her and her family and their ability to continue caregiving and supporting their Mother, Laetitia M Armstrong.