Hey y’all, we’re reaching out to our friends, coworkers, community and families on behalf of Tonya and Lakendrick Bankhead.

Their son KJ was diagnosed with neuroblastoma a few days after his 2nd birthday, last year. At the time of diagnosis doctors discovered he had 3 tumors, one on his pelvic bone, one on his right knee and one on his right kidney.

KJ started chemo and other medications. The tumors shrunk and he then had surgery to remove them. But the battle continued. One of KJ’s kidneys failed due to clotting and lack of blood flow. KJ then had 2 bone marrow transplants, the last one in January. His mom, dad, siblings, family and friends celebrated as doctors told them he beat cancer! Unfortunately, shortly after, little KJ had another medical condition that would cause him to be hospitalized again. He was diagnosed with TMA which causes damage to vital organs. His only kidney was failing. He needed a medication that insurance would not cover. The family had to pay $14,000 for this medication for their boy. KJ has weekly doctor’s appointments in Jackson for this medication infusion and blood pressure medication. 2 weeks ago, today, KJ had a seizure on the way to Jackson for a routine doctor’s appointment. His blood pressure was 252/115. He was lifeless when they arrived at OCH. He was flown to Jackson and is still there receiving care.

My coworker Tonya, KJ’s mom and KJ’s dad take turns being by his side, working and caring for their other children. They are driving back and forth from Jackson to Columbus as they manage to juggle it all.

They have 4 other children and the bills don’t stop coming. Tonya works at Baptist as a CNA on night shift and is also in nursing school. She is always smiling, always positive, makes her faith known and is a hard worker.

I pray this gofund me will help this family so Tonya and her husband can be by KJ’s side without the worry of bills or financial burdens.

Thank you all for taking the time to read this, if you’re not able to donate share and lift this family up in prayer! #kjstrong