Missy Cheers for Lilly

In July 2024, Missy reached out to us at Ohio Valley All Stars to inquire about her daughter Lilly joining one of our competitive all star teams. With the season underway, we weren’t sure if there would be any spots available. However, there was ONE spot available on our Youth Level 1 team, Hot Shots. We told Missy we would be happy to evaluate Lilly, but had to do so quickly due to choreography coming quick. Lilly was out of town with a friend, so Missy drove 4 hours round trip…picked her up and surprised her by bringing her to the gym to meet the coaches and be evaluated. Missy said it has always been Lilly’s dream to do OVA and she wanted her to have the opportunity to make her dreams come true. Lilly walked in the gym that day and has never looked back. We truly believe Lilly joining OVA was meant to be. She excels in the gym, works hard, and has made unbelievable strides since that day in July. Lilly is now part of two teams at the gym. Missy never missed the opportunity to watch Lilly do her thing and was always so complimentary of everything that OVA strives to be.

Last weekend, despite Missy’s rapidly failing health, Lilly made the brave decision to attend a large cheer competition in Washington DC. She knew her mom’s wish was for her children to continue living normal lives and she wanted to be there for her teams. Lilly performed with grace and determination, and even brought home a national championship with one of her teams.

On Wednesday, March 6, Missy passed away after a brave 3.5 year battle with neuroendocrine cancer. She fought hard and her strength will forever be an inspiration to all who knew her. In a short time, the Arnold Family has made an incredible impact on the OVA Family. Missy was such a kind soul and wanted nothing more than for Lilly to be in the gym living her dream. Our goal is to make sure that wish is fulfilled for many years to come. Funds raised will go towards Lilly’s cheer expenses for the coming years. Missy now has the best seat and we have no doubt she will always be cheering for Lilly!

Melissa Arnold Obituary