After discovering a swollen lymph node in her neck, Kamella and her family started on a journey that was very unexpected. Thanks to a thorough pediatrician, multiple tests were ordered and Kamella was referred to Seattle Children's Hospital for further testing. She learned the difference between a CT scan and an MRI, and what an otolaryngologist is. Although active and healthy, it was discovered that Kamella has Papillary Thyroid Cancer with bilateral cervical metastasis at multiple levels. 

Unfortunately, this journey started just 3 weeks after Kamella's mom had major surgery in January and her family has just started to pay for the related expenses. Thankfully, they have health insurance through her mom's work, but the financial burden is still tough.

A thyroidectomy was needed along with removal of affected lymph nodes. It was discovered that the cancer had spread through one of her vocal cord nerves. Her parathyroid glands are struggling to work correctly and she is currently on medication to keep her body chemistry in balance. In a few weeks she will be having her first Iodine Radiation treatment with another to follow in 6-9 months to hopefully eliminate the wide spread cancer.

There are 6 children still at home. This is a family who tries hard to be self-sufficient, growing their own garden, canning produce, participating in 4H with a horse and goats, giving service, and very active in their church and community.

Please help them with their medical and travel expenses to and from the hospital. They would be very grateful!

Fun Facts about Kamella:

She goes by Kami or Kamella and loves to read. She's a lefty and enjoys anything creative. She loves science and is considering being a cancer doctor. She plays trumpet, sings in choir, runs cross country and plays basketball at school. She shows a mini-alpine goat in 4H. She is a great student who loves school. She likes her T-shirt, "I'm kicking cancer's butt. What's your super power?"