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Elizabeth's Journey to Recovery

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***UPDATE***
6/9/19

Elizabeth remains in Virginia with her dad and step-mom receiving treatment.  This round of treatment has been the hardest yet.  She's had to be hospitalized a few times because they are pumping her with as much chemo as possible.  This phase lasts for 10 weeks (minimum) depending upon her response to each treatment.  

Ashley was able to get stationed back in Iowa and while that makes it more convenient for her to see Elizabeth; it's not always feasible due to the cost.  Between flights, hotels, rental cars and food; each trip averages about $2,000.  Ashley is hoping to get out to VA every few weeks to be by her daughters side.  Asking each of you to find it in your hearts to help in whatever way is financial possible to make this happen.  

Thank you all for the continued support and prayers - please keep them coming!!

Original Post:
On January 17, 2019, Elizabeth was diagnosed with T Cell Leukemia.  Her journey started with a trip to the doctors office after being sick off and on for some time.  After doing tests, they noticed her red blood cell count was extremely low and sent her to the ER.  While at the ER, she received 2 blood transfusions and they informed the parents that her immune system was failing her.  After more tests done at the ER, they provided the diagnosis.  Elizabeth's mother, Ashley, is currently deployed serving her country so Elizabeth has been staying with her dad in Virginia.  The military has granted Ashley 2 weeks leave to be with her daughter.  She's currently sitting in an airport hoping to get on a flight with one backpack to last her those 2 weeks.  When she lands in Virginia, she'll need to pay for a hotel, car rental, winter clothes, etc.  This is where I'm hoping we can help her!  But first, a little more about these two incredible women...

Elizabeth is one spunky 13 year-old girl.  She is creative, thoughtful and funny.  When her mom got deployed, this thoughtful teenage girl took to her art and creativity and put together a package for her mom.  The packages were meant to cheer Ashley up when she was away, open me when...you are sad, you need a hug, you need a laugh, etc.  This tells the story of Elizabeth's heart.  She is always at the ready to put a smile on your face and is thinking of others.  When I talked with her last night after being diagnosed and facing this scary new reality without her mother, I asked how she was feeling about all of this.  Her response was, well at least they will make me feel better so that will be good.  She can only see the good and positive in every situation.  She was bummed about losing her hair, though, as any teenage girl would be!

Ashley Elizabeth Schultz has been my best friend since we were just 8 years old.  If you know her, you love her.  She has the best laugh you've ever heard and a heart of pure gold.  Ashley is not usually the one to ask for help (hence me doing it for her) rather is the one giving.  She's passionate about the military and serving her country.  As such, she's ran countless fundraisers in an effort to benefit her fellow military soldiers.  I'm asking for us as a community to band together and be her extra support system.  Lift her up during this difficult time and wrap her in love, warmth, prayer and a giving hand.  


Thank you in advance for your generosity!
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Donations 

  • Patricia Austin
    • $30 
    • 5 yrs
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Organizer

Amanda Harless
Organizer
Ankeny, IA

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