Abby’s Fight Against Leukemia and the Village That Stood Behind Her

"Happy like Abby"

Through every challenge, Abby’s joyful spirit inspired her family and their small hometown of Hockley. Their family motto — “Happy Like Abby” — became a reminder to focus on moments of joy, even during hard times.

When Abby’s third birthday approached during a period of medical isolation, her parents had an idea. Knowing Abby loved dogs, they posted a simple request on their neighborhood Facebook page: Could anyone walk their dogs past the house to cheer her up?

The response was overwhelming. More than 100 neighbors, along with local police and firefighters, paraded past Abby’s home with their dogs.

“We thought maybe five people would show up,” said Abby’s dad, Mike. “Instead, the whole community came.”

Building a new normal

Abby recently completed frontline treatment and is now in the maintenance phase, which will last about 18 months. Maintenance therapy means monthly bloodwork, quarterly clinic visits and oral chemotherapy at home.

Life is slowly becoming more normal, and Abby’s parents are amazed at her progress. Two months ago, Abby couldn’t run; today she’s in a gymnastics class and asking to try dance. She loves animals, shopping and all things pink. With a baby sister due soon, she’s excited about becoming a big sister, too.

Looking ahead

Abby’s parents credit the care team at Texas Children’s — from oncology to child life — for guiding them through the toughest moments.

“They’re like family to us now,” Jen said.

Their advice to other parents facing a new diagnosis: Take things one day at a time. “You don’t have to plan the whole next year,” Mike said. “Say yes to help that’s offered and take advantage of all the resources at Texas Children’s.”

About Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center

Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center, affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine (BCM), is internationally recognized for excellence in clinical care, research and education. As one of the largest pediatric cancer centers in the United States, it consistently ranks among the nation's best.

Located in the world’s largest medical complex, the Center provides top-tier, individualized and family centered care to children and adolescents with cancer and blood disorders. With more than 200 faculty members, including 130 physicians, it welcomes over 3,000 new patients each year. The Center is part of Texas Children’s Hospital—one of the world’s largest pediatric hospitals and regularly ranked among the top 10 by U.S. News & World Report.

“By taking a multidisciplinary approach to care and closely collaborating across our various subspecialties — many of which are also ranked among the best — we are able to tackle the most rare and aggressive cancers and complex cases,” said Dr. Will Parsons, Interim Director of the Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center and Professor of Pediatrics, Hematology-Oncology at Baylor College of Medicine. “Our team at Texas Children’s is incredibly honored to provide life-saving care to children like Abby.”

Learn more about Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center.