March 14, 2010

As the Wichita Thunder fought for a win on the ice Sunday, a little girl stood just outside, fighting a much different battle. 11-year-old Kayla Smith has been suffering from a medical mystery for years, and now she needs the community's help to get a diagnosis, and treatment.

"Doctors have told us, pray for the best, but prepare for the worst," said Kayla's mother, Melissa Weber.

Kayla was born a healthy baby, but around the time she turned 5-years-old, everything started changing.

"From having a child who was starting to do everything by herself, and now, it's like having a toddler," said Weber.

Mentally, Kayla is a normal, 11-year-old girl. But physically, she can't do everyday tasks by herself. Instead, she needs help doing things like getting dressed, eating, and sometimes walking.

"We don't know what kind of life she's going to have. We don't know how long she'll even live," said Weber.

Kayla's family has taken her to doctors in the Wichita and Kansas City area, but no one has been able to diagnose her. Now, Kayla's parents are hoping to get her into the Mayo Clinic, but they'll have to pay out of pocket.

"She needs to go to the doctor, money shouldn't keep her from doing that, but unfortunately it is," said Rachel Ann Vander, who is helping Kayla's family raise money.

Vander and her family only met Kayla about a month ago. But now they have donated countless hours, and prizes for a benefit raffle.

"Because she needs the help, flat out, she needs it," said Vander.

Vander's reason for helping may be simple, but Kayla's problem is not. However, the people who know and love Kayla say giving up, is not an option.

"No," said Weber. "She makes it worth fighting for her everyday."

The benefit raffle drawing will take place on May 1st, and there will be events up until that date. For more information, you can contact Rachel Ann Vander at (316) 393-7970, or Melissa Weber at (316) 308-4692.