Help Kheltyn Beat Leukemia – Support The Family’s Fight

Hello,

My name is Krithika, and I am honored to be part of the Bellevue Montessori community. My daughter, Nethra Rajesh, is a Junior at Tesla STEM High School, and together, we are reaching out to support a wonderful family in need—the Reynards.

Who We’re Supporting

The Reynard family has been an integral part of our school community. Lela Reynard, a dedicated mother and staff member at Bellevue Montessori, has always given so much to our children and our school. Now, in the face of an unimaginable challenge, she and her family need our help. Below is the message from the Reynard family:

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Strangers,

In July 2021, our hearts were filled with joy as we welcomed our son, Kheltyn, into the world. From the start, he amazed us—walking before crawling, speaking in full sentences, and reading by age two. His love for books, playtime at the park, and making friends made every day brighter.

Then, just after Christmas 2024, everything changed.

A Sudden and Life-Changing Diagnosis

One day, Kheltyn stopped walking and began crawling everywhere. Concerned, we rushed him to the ER, expecting a minor injury. Instead, we were sent immediately to Seattle Children’s Hospital, where doctors confirmed our worst fear: our three-year-old had acute leukemia. The cancer had appeared suddenly, without warning, and was already taking a toll on his tiny body. Treatment had to begin immediately.

Our New Reality

Since December 27, Kheltyn has undergone multiple procedures—spinal taps, lumbar punctures, and a port insertion—to prepare for aggressive chemotherapy. Today, he fights bravely, regains strength, and even walks (hobbling!) with his walker. His spirit remains unbreakable—he still loves his books and tells us daily that his blood is healing.

But the battle is far from over. The next few months are critical in ensuring his cancer does not return.

How This Has Impacted Our Family

Our Family’s Daily Life Has Changed Completely

My husband has become Kheltyn’s full-time caregiver.

Our older son, Kenneth, who is autistic, now attends school only three days a week to accommodate hospital visits. Despite the challenges, he is Kheltyn’s biggest cheerleader, always giving him a thumbs-up before procedures.

I have had to adjust my work schedule, balancing being the sole provider while caring for my family’s emotional and financial needs.

Financial Strain

Frequent trips to Seattle Children’s Hospital mean increased gas expenses and tolls.

Emergency food runs and hospital stays have added unexpected costs.

While we’ve applied for assistance, waitlists are long, and the bills don’t stop.

How You Can Help

We are reaching out for support to help ease the financial burden so we can focus on what matters most—helping Kheltyn heal. Your donation will help with:

✅ Transportation costs (gas, tolls, parking for hospital visits)

✅ Medical expenses not covered by insurance

✅ Essential living expenses while we navigate this difficult time

Every dollar and word of encouragement means the world to us. If you cannot donate, please consider sharing Kheltyn’s story with your network.

Gratitude Beyond Words

We have been incredibly blessed by the kindness of our community—meals, messages, and unwavering support from friends, colleagues, and loved ones have given us strength. We are hopeful that with your support, Kheltyn will continue to fight, heal, and one day run again.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

With love and gratitude,

Lela Reynard & Family