Meet Emily

Emily is not your average three year old, especially with her strong yet brave attitude. Emily’s parents (Christoper & Katy Garner) are proud parents of three: Chris II age 13, Vincent age 12, and Emily age 3. On August 9th, 2018 Emily was diagnosed with Pre B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

After the original diagnosis, the road hasn’t been the easiest for Emily and her family. She has had approximately 15 blood transfusions, 15 blood platelet transfusions, 15 spinal taps, chemo port surgery, and a dozen or so medicines including chemo that her body needs to survive. On top of her leukemia, Emily also suffers from acute liver failure which essentially means her Liver is no longer assisting in her fight against her cancer.

On October 2nd, 2018, Emily’s body built up antibodies against her chemo treatment Peg Asparaginase. This means Emily can no longer receive this specific medicine to save her life. Plan B consists of a treatment called Erwinia. There is currently a nationwide shortage of this medicine, which is when the Garner family started looking at larger hospitals.

The Garner Family has been through a lot including managing working, bills, taking care of their other children and Emily’s medical needs. Emily just finished the phase of cancer treatment where she was given a drug (Methotrexate) that is so strong that, once injected, will take up to 4-7 days to flush from her body, only to have it reinjected again, once her body is clean.

Despite what Emily has been through, she remains in good spirit every day. She constantly has a smile on her face and is always laughing. Some of her favorite things are Minnie mouse, Peppa pig and anything cooking related. She is waiting patiently for her to make a wish trip where she will go to Disneyland to meet Minnie Mouse in person. On February 1st, Emily started the treatment Erwinia and seems to be adjusting well!

The Braden Kramer Foundation asks for your prayers during Emily’s treatments! 🙏🏻