The Corbin community is rallying behind six-year-old Millie Kate Daugherty who was recently diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). A GoFundMe campaign has been launched and a 5k fundraiser is being organized.
DIPG is a rare and aggressive brain tumor that primarily affects children.
“She’s such a bright light,” said family-friend Sarah Reeves. “She is extremely intelligent… she’s a kind, sweet little girl.”
According to Reeves, Daugherty has been involved in activities, such as playing softball with the Corbin league, dancing, crafting and spending time with her younger sister who she has a close bond with.
“She is always smiling. She’s always a good friend to others in her class,” said another family friend, Hannah Harris. “My daughter always speaks so highly of her. You can tell, even by looking at her pictures, she’s always joyful.”
As news of the DIPG diagnosis spread, Reeves, Harris and several other family friends quickly stepped in to support the Daugherty family.
“We wanted to do anything that we could to uplift a financial burden of any kind,” said Reeves.
According to Reeves, the GoFundMe initiative has already raised $65,385.
“It’s our goal that we’ve kind of set as a friend group to raise $100,000,” said Reeves. “It was our hope to try and give [the parents] a peace of mind while they’re spending as much quality time with Millie Kate during her healing process.”
Harris also noted they have planned a community event called “A 5K for MK” to bring people together and raise funds.
“We want the community to be involved,” said Harris. “We want to fundraise for the family but also bring awareness to the DIPG diagnosis, as well. We thought it would be a great way for everybody to come out and support them, whether they run or walk.”
The 5K for MK event is scheduled for July 11 on Depot Street. The $30 registration fee includes a t-shirt and a custom-made medal for winners in various age categories. Prices for children will be cheaper so her classmates can participate. The event will also feature inflatables for kids and local food vendors.
The event has received business sponsorships but are still seeking additional support.
“We’re wanting as much visibility as possible,” said Reeves.
Other fundraising efforts include a T-shirt campaign through Juneberry, with proceeds benefiting the family.
The focus remains on supporting Daugherty and her family.
“We are wanting to raise money and awareness for Millie Kate, rally behind her, pray for her and lift her up in every way possible,” said Reeves. “The focus is on Millie Kate and her healing.”
