Abby Grace Needham of Fresno was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer and will soon be starting a fourth round of chemotherapy.
Abby was diagnosed with Pineoblastoma in July, a rare brain cancer that's rarely cured. While she was in her hospital room Friday night, the size of her "crew" at Madera High School continued to grow.
Abby's father, Duncan, is a drama teacher at the school. In the past few months, the entire campus and the community has rallied behind the family.
"We are just blessed with the support we've received so far... The donations, the gifts for Abby, the attention she's been given, it helps us. It keeps us strong," said Duncan Needham.
Friday night, Duncan and Abby's sister, Lily, did the pregame coin toss. Lily was also named an honorary cheerleader. More than a thousand "Abby's Crew" T-shirts have been sold, with one dollar going toward Abby's family.
In addition, fundraisers on campus and proceeds from concessions will also go to Abby's family to help with expenses as they travel to San Francisco for her next round of treatment.
While Abby's family prays for her recovery, they're also hoping her fight will lead to a greater awareness of childhood cancer. For those in Abby's crew, this fight is personal.
"I think that anyone who has a three year old is touched by this story, by a kid with cancer. And we all deal with our battles, but to rally around and be able to cheer on someone else is special," said Madera High Academic Coach Tim Riche.
For more information, or if you'd like to help Abby's family:
Abby's Facebook Page:
http://www.facebook.com/media/albums/?id=216756111701443#!/AngelsForAbby
The address that you may send mail or encouragement for Abby is:
Abby Grace Needham
C/O Children's Hospital Central Calif.
9300 Valley Children's Place
Madera, CA 93636
There has been a trust fund set up for Abigail Grace Needham at EECU, Educational Employees Credit Union. Out of the local area, angels can mail their deposits to ABIGAIL NEEDHAM FUND, Educational Employees Credit Union, P.O. Box 5242, Fresno, CA 93755.
Deposits can be made at any branch into account number 11758571.
