We are honored to walk alongside families facing medical crises, offering support in the moments when it’s needed most. Today, we’d like to share the story of Mckinnah Francois—a bright, joyful six-year-old whose world changed earlier this year with a life-altering diagnosis.
In January 2025, Mckinnah was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Since then, her life has become a complex schedule of chemotherapy, frequent hospital admissions, and weekly oncology clinic appointments. Her treatment, currently underway at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, is expected to continue for at least six months. It includes 14 planned admissions, as well as unplanned hospitalizations, labs, scans, and procedures.
What makes this even more difficult is the distance her family must travel for care. Mckinnah lives in Oroville, CA with her mother, Brandy DeFranzo, and her 9-year-old brother, Kyren—roughly 200 miles from the hospital. Every appointment means hours of travel, time away from home, and even more time away from work.
A Mother’s Strength and a Family’s Challenge
Brandy, Mckinnah’s mother and primary caregiver, has put everything on hold to care for her daughter. She’s left her job and is currently on disability so she can be present for every appointment, every side effect, and every long night. Mckinnah’s father, Stephen, lives separately but continues to help with treatments when possible. His workplace has been flexible, which has helped him stay involved and afloat financially.
In addition to the medical journey, the family has been navigating a wave of unexpected life changes all at once. Brandy recently had to use her savings to purchase a safer, more reliable vehicle—something essential for the long drives to and from treatment. While it was a necessary step to keep Mckinnah safe and on schedule, it also added a financial weight during an already difficult time.
Like many parents in her position, Brandy is doing everything she can to keep life steady for both of her children. Mckinnah’s older brother, Kyren, has been incredibly understanding, even as his world shifts too. Amidst these changes, the family is finding new rhythms and leaning on hope each day.
A Grant Can Offer More Than Money
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the stress on the entire family is unimaginable. It impacts every part of life—emotionally, physically, logistically, and financially. That’s why we believe in showing up not just with care and concern, but with real, tangible support.
We’ve worked with Brandy to help apply for multiple grants designed specifically to aid families like hers—grants that can help with rent, car payments, and day-to-day necessities. These grants don’t just offer relief—they create breathing room. They remind families that they’re not alone.
In addition to financial support, we’re here to help with advocacy, paperwork, and emotional guidance—whatever it takes to help lighten the load Brandy is carrying so she can keep her focus where it belongs: on Mckinnah’s healing and Kyren’s well-being.
Hope in the Hardest Moments
Even in the face of exhaustion and uncertainty, Brandy remains an anchor for her children. Her love, resolve, and transparency remind us why this work matters. It’s our privilege to stand with families like hers and be part of the village it takes to navigate childhood cancer.
Mckinnah’s journey is far from over, but she is surrounded by love, strength, and a community ready to lift her up. We’re honored to be part of that community—and committed to continuing this work for families who need it most.
If you know someone walking through something similar, please reach out. Sometimes, the first step to healing is simply knowing someone cares.
– Louie and Nicole Wallace
