VISITOR TO GUEST
Ashley, 13 at the time, initially came to the Tucson Ronald McDonald House as a visitor in support of her older sister, who had just given birth to premature twins. The family was no stranger to hospitals and illness as mom Joy had been diagnosed with breast cancer less than six months earlier. In the NICU, the twins got stronger, but only a few weeks later tragedy struck again. This time, Ashley was diagnosed with leukemia. Ashley, Joy, and dad Hoke were now guests at the Ronald McDonald House, where they would find strength together.

GUEST TO FIGHTER
Always a bright, energetic girl who could bring a smile to your face, Ashley’s days became difficult, with her fever spiking above 100 often and the chemotherapy treatments affecting her memory. At times, she didn’t even recognize her parents. Her family, her community, and the residents and volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House urged her on and kept her spirits up. The family barbequed for the House’s guests on July 4th. They celebrated Halloween with friends from the hospital. Through many highs and lows, Ashley’s health began to improve.

FIGHTER TO CHAMPION
On December 16, test results came in and Joy and Hoke received the best news the parents of an ill child could get: Ashley was cancer free. Her courage and her family’s strength helped her to overcome the disease, and Ashley can look to the future with hope.