We all have a way of dealing with death. For some, it’s a time to reflect, to grieve, and for others, it’s a time to harness inner courage. This was the case for 12-year old Kayla George who bravely sung Christina Perri’s, “A Thousand Years” to her beloved mom who laid in a hospice bed awaiting impending death. Kayla’s mom, Anne George, was given only a few weeks to live after she was diagnosed with a tumor spreading in her back.
Anne George’s battle with cancer began 16 years ago when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She was able to overcome this and went into remission for several years. Unfortunately, Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer and later received treatment and was given the all-clear. In the absolute worst turn of events, Anne went for a CT scan of a presumed “baby bump”, but doctors found out that it was a tumor that had spread on her back and was given only a brief couple of weeks to live.
Kayla’s aunt, Rosalind Reilly, recounted the evening of when it all happened and even candidly took video footage of the inspiring performance. She posted the video on Facebook which garnered more than 11,000 views. “I was looking at her and I thought – I need to video that” said Rosalind.
Rosalind stated that for Kayla, “Singing is a big thing”. Kayla has auditioned various times for Britain’s Got Talent and also is never afraid to sing in front of her mom as often as she gets. “But this was completely out of the blue,” said Rosalind referring to Kayla’s endearing display of affection. Behind Kayla’s gifted singing voice is also a young girl that continues to struggle for survival. Kayla has been moving from her father’s house (whom she stays with) to her aunt’s/grandmother’s house to make it easier for her to attend St. Andrew’s secondary school in the area of Cartyne.
Progress has been difficult to allow for Kayla and her father to be eligible for a housing association home in the east end where her school is located. The situation is so hectic that her father has to get two buses to take her to school. “She’s at St. Andrew’s and she needs to stay there. Her friends are here and her life is here,” stated Rosalind who attributes Kayla as thoughtful, caring, and an amazing girl.
On the bright side, support has shown up for Kayla through her schoolmates. Some of her friends have initiated a gofundme page to ease financial burdens as well as help her in her time of dire need. Additionally, supporters have bought concert tickets and pampering sessions – all in favor to support Kayla in a severely trying time.
Kayla’s splendid act of kindness and love not only moved her mother to tears and admiration, but an astounding 11,000 viewers have all bared witness to the incredible act of selflessness. Let Kayla’s act today serve as an unflinching reminder to never cower in the face of fear and that hope does indeed come in many different ways.
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