Clovis girl who needs kidney has school and community joining her battle

CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) -- Despite a lengthy medical ordeal, a little Clovis girl has never stopped smiling. Now, nine-year-old Kierra Ellis has her entire school, and community, joining her battle.

Kierra needs a new kidney. The Gettysburg Elementary 3rd grader hasn't been well enough to attend school full-time, but clearly she is missed by her buddies like Abby Simpson.

"She's really nice. She'll stand up for you if you get bullied, even if she'll get hurt. She doesn't care."

Abby sported a "Kierra Strong" t-shirt. They'll be sold for $20 at the school carnival on Friday to raise funds for the family. The shirts read, "Generals take care of each other!"

"With the way that the world is now, it's wonderful to know that there's still people out there that really care. That really care and want to help," said Gina Arnold, Kierra's aunt.

Donations will be taken at a booth inside the cafeteria. Organ donor information will also be available.

"We hope to find a donor for her to have the kidney transplant, so she can get healthy again and participate in school full-time," said Diana Copeland, Guidance Instructional Specialist

Kierra's artwork shows she is a talented artist, and it's a big deal when she's healthy enough to return to the classroom.

"Yeah they go, 'oh she's here. Yay.' They all jump up and down because she's hardly here," said May Vang, Kierra's teacher.

Kierra actually likes to jump on a trampoline.

"Real active, very active, considering how sick she is," said Gina.

Kierra was diagnosed with kidney failure two years ago. Little Abby is hopeful a donor can be found for a transplant.

"Yeah, because she's one of my friends and I really want her to come back to school so I can play with her."

The Gettysburg Elementary carnival in Clovis is all set for Friday-- rain or shine. It runs from three until eight in the evening.