Hailey’s Fight Against Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Hi everyone,

My name is Jessica Walker, and I’m Hailey’s mom. I’m creating this GoFundMe for my daughter, Hailey Pinson — a bright, kind, and determined 18-year-old whose world was recently turned upside down.

What started as a follow-up after a car accident led to an unexpected discovery — enlarged lymph nodes that turned out to be Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune defense. In Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, abnormal white blood cells (lymphocytes) grow uncontrollably and can spread to other areas of the body if left untreated.

Hailey has been diagnosed with Stage IIB, Unfavorable Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Currently, she is not a candidate for radiation therapy due to the multiple locations of cancer in her neck and chest. Radiation to these areas would pose a high risk of developing a secondary cancer later in life, so her team has opted for an aggressive chemotherapy-only treatment plan at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Her treatment will include six months of chemotherapy, with close monitoring and additional interventions as needed.

Before starting chemotherapy, Hailey is currently undergoing fertility preservation — a process that allows her the chance to have children in the future. Because cancer treatments can impact fertility, her doctors recommended collecting and freezing her eggs beforehand. It was an emotional, urgent, and physically demanding process, but Hailey faced it with incredible strength and maturity — the same courage she brings to every challenge.

Softball has been at the center of Hailey’s life since she was just four years old. She played for Smyrna Clayton Little Lass from ages 4–16, growing into a leader and mentor for younger players. Even after aging out, she continues to coach and umpire, giving back to the same league that helped shape her. Today, she proudly plays as a catcher and first baseman for Delaware’s Finest 18U Fastpitch, wearing #39 — a number that now symbolizes her strength, faith, and fight.

Hailey is also a graduate of Smyrna High School and remains deeply involved in her community, always volunteering, mentoring, and spreading positivity. She’s known for her kindness, determination, and the way she lifts others up — both on and off the field.

Just days after receiving her diagnosis, Hailey still suited up to play in a softball tournament — catching in four out of five games and playing first base in the fifth — helping her team battle their way to the championship. Ironically, that tournament was a “Fuc# Cancer” awareness event, serving as a powerful reminder that life sometimes brings things full circle. Even then, Hailey played with heart, grace, and the same fierce spirit that defines her. She truly is a fighter in every sense of the word.

This fundraiser will help cover the many medical, travel, and living expenses associated with her treatment — including frequent trips to NYC, uncovered medical costs, fertility preservation expenses, medications, and recovery needs. Any support, no matter how big or small, helps lift some of the weight off her shoulders so she can focus fully on healing.

Hailey has always been the one cheering others on — now it’s our turn to cheer for her.

Thank you for your love, generosity, and prayers as we walk beside her in this fight.

If you’re unable to donate, please share Hailey’s story to help spread the word — every share, prayer, and message of encouragement truly makes a difference.

— With gratitude,

Jessica Walker

Hailey’s Mom