Layla’s Leukemia Fund. Help for Layla

Layla just celebrated her 20th birthday on October 19th.  Last Saturday morning, she went to the emergency room in Fort Bragg, not feeling well.  The blood test results raised serious concerns, and Layla was sent immediately to UC Davis Medical Center for further testing.  There, doctors performed a bone marrow biopsy and lumbar puncture, and friends and family awaited the results and hoped for a best case scenario.  

On Wednesday afternoon, Layla was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.    

Layla began her chemotherapy treatments the same afternoon.  Her mother, Felicia, put her life on hold in order to stay with her daughter in the oncology wing as Layla faces the battle ahead.  Her father, Otis, is driving back and forth between Sacramento and Fort Bragg, trying to be both emotional support for his family as well as financial provider.  They are stressed beyond belief; they are in shock, but they are trying to stay positive.   

In this face of everything before her,  Layla has shown nothing but bravery and determination.  Her strength is an inspiration to us all.  

Because of her age, Layla’s prognosis is very good; her doctors are hopeful for a successful recovery.  However, Layla is facing a long road ahead, beginning with 10 days of chemotherapy, followed by more painful and expensive procedures; after everything, she may still require a bone marrow transplant.  She will be in the hospital for at least a month; the family is hoping she will be able to spend Christmas at home.    

The events of this week have unfolded so quickly, the family is still waiting to find out how much Layla’s treatments they will be responsible for covering.   With jobs on hold and their lives interrupted, plus the cost of necessary travel expenses making the 400 mile round trip back and forth between Westport and Sacramento - this family could use a little help in the face of these sudden and unexpected financial burdens that have been placed upon them.  

The family is so grateful for the outpouring of love and support that has been shown to them since the news of Layla’s diagnosis.  They are grateful for anything you can give to help them through this difficult and strenuous time in their lives.  Even if you can’t donate, post a message of encouragement and love below, and send some positive, healing thoughts out for this beautiful family.