Community rallies to support 3-year-old with brain tumor

In the past few days, the community has come together to help the family of Kayla Dennis.

On July 14, an eight-centimeter tumor was found on her daughter’s, Emilia, brain.

Dennis noticed her daughter’s eye “making circular motions” about a year ago, said Jordain Slaydon, Dennis’ friend. After multiple attempts to see a neurologist, the family was told they needed an MRI to be seen.

Recently, Dennis discovered that Emilia could not see out of one of her eyes. Upon this discovery, a doctor recommended they get an emergency MRI in Lafayette. This is when the tumor was found.

Both Lafayette and Baton Rouge hospitals were unable to provide treatment for the tumor, and Dennis, her fiance and Emilia were transferred to St. Jude’s hospital in Memphis via ambulance.

Doctors determined that due to the size of the tumor, Emilia will have to undergo two years of chemo. A biopsy was done on July 17, and the family is currently waiting for the results.

Slaydon organized a GoFundMe to raise money for Dennis’ family — including her five other children who are currently staying with their grandmother. They will need financial support for regular bills, medical care and transportation back home following treatment.

The GoFundMe already has about $1,700 raised from 37 donations; The goal is $7,500.

Slaydon expressed “a million thank yous” to Southwest Louisiana community members who have already donated.

“Southwest Louisiana has definitely come together and surprised us all,” she said. “I don’t know what we would do without the community. It’s been amazing seeing everyone come together, and most of them don’t even know her.”

Support has been extended from local businesses and artisans as well. 31 have donated items and services to be awarded in a raffle. Tickets are $5.

The raffle prizes will be drawn at a benefit for Emilia set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 3 at the American Legion in Sulphur, 1403 W. Napoleon St.

Musician Chad Ryan will perform at the benefit and is currently recruiting more artists to participate. Slaydon said they are seeking local restaurants to provide plate lunches and food for the benefit.

Benefit shirts are being sold, as well. They must be pre-ordered online by July 21.

Payment forms for benefit shirts, as well as payment options for raffle tickets or donations, can be found on Facebook.