On January 23rd, my 11-year old grand niece, Ayla, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The diagnosis came as a devastating shock to the family. She had been feeling tired and unwell for several weeks, but no one was prepared for the traumatic news the doctors delivered.

Ayla is incredibly creative, loves cats, all things Harry Potter and Beetlejuice, and is just a beautiful soul. She is always working on a project or craft, and even started her own YouTube channel. Ayla is soft-spoken and sweet, but also has a feisty and sassy spirit that we hope will carry her through the difficult road she has ahead of her.

Ayla is currently in the induction phase of her chemotherapy treatment and is looking at a long and trying journey. Her mom, Amber, quit her job to care for Ayla full-time. With the reduced income and increased medical and living expenses, the family will be facing financial hardships through this extensive treatment process. Any support -- financial or otherwise -- that family, friends and the community, can offer Ayla and her family will be deeply and sincerely appreciated.