This September, our world was turned upside down when we learned that our bright, sweet, and sassy three-year-old, Murphy Schulkins, has leukemia. Just two days later, she received her official diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL).

The first phase of treatment will take place at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, where Murphy and her parents, Ashley and Ryan, will spend the next 8–12 weeks. After that, her treatment will continue for the next 2.5 years at the Children’s Hospital of Illinois (CHOI) in Peoria. The first 6–7 months will be the most intense and grueling, with a mix of inpatient and outpatient care. During this time, Murphy will be away from daycare and unable to be in large crowds due to her fragile immune system.

Murphy is a joyful little girl who loves books, movies, caring for her babies and stuffies, and—most of all—playing with her big sister, Sara. Even though she is small, she has already shown such big strength and bravery through blood draws, IVs, and difficult procedures.

Murphy misses her home, her sister, and her friends deeply. Ashley and Ryan are grateful to work at State Farm, where they have been given flexibility to focus fully on Murphy’s care. Still, the family faces the challenge of frequent travel back and forth between Memphis and Bloomington to be with Sara, who is being lovingly cared for by family, and later between Bloomington and Peoria for ongoing treatment.

While St. Jude is generously covering medical expenses, lodging, and food during their time in Memphis, there are still significant costs the family will face—such as travel expenses, supplies, childcare for Sara, and possible additional medical bills after the first round of treatment.

We know that Murphy is in the very best hands, and we are holding tightly to the hope and reassurance that B-ALL is both the most common and the most treatable form of childhood cancer. We are already so lifted by the love, prayers, and support pouring in from family and friends.

If you feel moved to support Murphy and her family on this journey, please know that every contribution helps and every kind word matters. We are endlessly grateful to all who are walking alongside us. We couldn’t do this without you.

With love and gratitude,

Ashley, Ryan, Sara & Murphy

Any remaining funds will be donated to St Jude in Murphy's name.