12/14/2025
My name is Kinley, and I am 13 years old. Over the last year, my life has changed in ways no child should ever have to experience.
In September 2024, doctors discovered a golf-ball-sized tumor in my pelvis. That tumor was surgically removed, but it was only the beginning of a long, painful journey. I was diagnosed with Castleman disease, a rare and serious condition that very few doctors are trained to treat.
Since the tumor was found, I have been hospitalized twice and have endured more than 100 doctor visits. I’ve had countless blood tests, multiple CT scans, a PET scan, ultrasounds, an MIBG scan, nuclear medicine scans, and two surgeries. For over a year, I’ve lived with constant pain—far more than any child should ever have to bear.
I experience severe pelvic pain, pain while using the bathroom, and episodes of peeing blood. I deal with internal itching that can’t be seen but never goes away. I have night sweats and extreme fatigue, often sleeping more than 14 hours a day just to get through life. Being a normal kid—going to school, spending time with friends, enjoying childhood—has become incredibly difficult.
We have exhausted every doctor and specialist available in Oklahoma. Sadly, there are no Castleman disease specialists in our state. Despite doing everything we can locally, we’ve reached a point where we need specialized care that simply isn’t available here.
The closest Castleman disease specialist is out of state, more than 8 hours away. Traveling for care means additional medical expenses, transportation costs, lodging, time off work, and ongoing treatment needs. This is not optional care—it is necessary for my health, my future, and my chance at living without constant pain.
We are asking for help to get me to the specialized care I desperately need. Every donation—no matter the size—brings us one step closer to answers, proper treatment, and hope. If you’re unable to donate, sharing my story means more than you know.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story, for your kindness, and for helping a 13-year-old girl fight a disease no child should have to face.
With gratitude,
A Beacon of Hope for Kinley Kinley's courageous battle against … Stephanie Ward needs your support for Send kinley to Houston for castleman disease treatment