Zyhia was just eight years old when she was first diagnosed with leukemia, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.

It all started about two years ago around midnight. Zyhia’s mother, Ericka, was sound asleep when she awoke to her daughter complaining of back pain. Before long, Zyhia’s pain worsened and walking became difficult. Terrified for her daughter, Ericka immediately took Zyhia to St. Thomas Hospital, where doctors ran a few tests before rushing her to the Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

On November 12th, 2017, her family received the devastating news: Zyhia had cancer. Initially heartbroken and confused, the Kendrick family turned to their faith to get through the diagnosis and the treatment that would follow. “I was in shock,” Ericka told Rally Foundation, “but we knew God had a plan.”

When she’s not receiving treatment at Vanderbilt, Zyhia enjoys singing, dancing, and theater. She also likes to cheer and enjoys playing with her little sister, Zaylah.

Every child who has been diagnosed with childhood cancer inspires us to Rally On to find better treatments with fewer long-term side effects and, ultimately, cures. Please join us in the fight against childhood cancer by making a donation or setting up your own Rally fundraiser today.