Ryleigh was diagnosed with stage four Hodgkin Lymphoma on October 4, 2024.
Her journey began in April 2024 when she came down with what seemed like a week-long flu. Instead of improving, her symptoms slowly worsened. Over the next few months she developed an enlarged lymph node in her armpit, a lingering cough, migraines, chronic fatigue, night sweats, and itchy skin.
Because her immune system was weakened during treatment, Ryleigh had to complete her freshman year of high school from home to stay safe.
Before the diagnosis, doctors ordered blood tests, scans, and biopsies to search for answers. Once the cancer was confirmed, she began twelve rounds of chemotherapy, which she finished on March 28. She will have an MRI soon to learn if she is cancer free. The emotional and mental side of treatment has been the hardest challenge for the whole family.
Since her diagnosis, the family has grown closer and learned not to take a single moment for granted.
Ryleigh is known for her bright spirit and caring heart. She stays upbeat and never takes herself too seriously, always smiling and dancing. She loves to laugh, especially at silly moments with her sister Makenzy. Her favorite things include spending time with family and friends, playing volleyball, and listening to music.
Ryleigh’s ability to stay positive and see the good in every day helped her get through treatment and inspired everyone around her.
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