My name is Kathy Thornton. My grandson, Colton Baggett, age 16, was recently diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He was taken by ambulance to Helen DeVos Children's Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI from Corewell Health in St. Joseph the day after Thanksgiving. They were there for 12 days before his release. He will be in a treatment plan for a minimum of 2 1/2 years, barring any unforeseen circumstances. Needless to say, we were devastated by his diagnosis.

This treatment plan, which includes chemotherapy and bone marrow samples, requires them to make a weekly trip to Grand Rapids, many with overnight stays in hotels.

His mom is a single parent and is the owner of a very small restaurant. Her name is Shelley. Occasionally, she has to close the restaurant because of lack of help to run it. Shelley's "go-to" person is Sarah, her daughter, who also has a daughter battling with a rare form of sarcoma cancer. This has put huge emotional as well as financial strain on our family.

Every small amount helps Colton receive the proper treatment. Please share and keep praying for him as well as our family.