This is such a huge blessing and it couldn't have come at a better time; we are down to one car again and we have decided to get Lexie a better wheelchair.”Amanda Kilgo
CULLMAN – David, The Giant Slayer Ministries held a benefit service for Hanceville teen Lexie York on Saturday at Redemption Assembly of God Church. The service included a healing testimony from David Bailey, a 14-year-old cancer survivor, also from Hanceville. Patrick Allred with In The Light Ministries preached and drew a picture to illustrate his powerful message. The gospel group Heartfelt Trio was also there, singing the night away.
In October 2015 Hanceville’s Alexis “Lexie” York was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood cancer, Rhabdomyosarcoma. It is a type of sarcoma, which is cancer of the soft tissue (like muscle), the connective tissue (such as tendon or cartilage) or bone. Saturday night’s benefit raised nearly $800, which will go to Lexie and her family to help with the mounting medical and household expenses that arise from fighting the deadly disease.
“I have been a funeral director for over 20 years and I have buried a lot of children during that time,” said Karen Cook, minister, “but still I never truly heard or acknowledged childhood cancer’s beast until my son was diagnosed with cancer and it hit me in the face. That’s when I became what is known as a cancer mom.
“There are, on average, 46 kids diagnosed with cancer each day,” she continued. “The average age of diagnosis is 6 years old. Statistics also tell us that seven children die each day from cancer. So ask yourself this: If it were your child, would you need and appreciate someone helping you? I can say from the bottom of my heart because I've walked in those shoes, YES! All but for the grace of God it could be your child or grandchild tomorrow – or even mine again.”
Sadly, Lexie was not able to be there for the benefit. She has begun her second round of chemotherapy and has been very tired and weak. Although she wasn’t physically at the event, she was definitely there in spirit.
“We are so very grateful for everyone that came out to support us, especially Karen Cook, Michelle Key, the church and everyone involved,” said Amanda Kilgo, Lexie’s mother. “God ALWAYS supplies everything you need; you just have to trust in him and his timing! This is such a huge blessing and it couldn't have come at a better time; we are down to one car again and we have decided to get Lexie a better wheelchair. She has a transport wheelchair but we think it would benefit her to have a more comfortable chair with better tires. Hopefully she won't need it for long but we want her to have more mobility and to be more comfortable while she needs it,” she smiled. “Again, we are just so very thankful – God is so good!
“We are so blessed to live in such a loving community,” she continued. “Lexie truly feels like she has a team behind her because of all of the love, encouragement, prayers and support! I believe that it helps her fight.”
The night was truly a success. If you weren’t able to make it to the event, you can still offer the family financial support as well as keep them in your prayers. Lexie’s fight is not over and she needs all the help she can get.
Lexie and her family would like to encourage others who are struggling with cancer through their Facebook page, Team Lexie. It is a place to celebrate life and pray for each other. It is also a way to keep up with Lexie and how she’s doing. If you aren’t already following her, go to https://www.facebook.com/teamlexie and let her know you’re rooting for her!
