Update on Daisy Merrick: Surfer, Fighter, Inspiration
Seven year-old Daisy Love Merrick, grand-daughter of Al Merrick of Channel Islands Surfboards, is a surfer, a fighter, and an inspiration for thousands.
Two months ago Daisy was re-diagnosed with cancer, continuing a battle she’s been fighting since she was five years-old.
Daisy was first diagnosed back in 2009 with a Stage 3 Wilm’s Tumor – a cancerous mass that had been growing from her kidney since birth. Discovered after a tumble on the playground, Daisy’s tumor began hemorrhaging cancerous cells into her body. She underwent surgery, and there began her long and arduous journey into chemo and radiation.
Twice since then Daisy has been declared “cancer-free”, but her disease has now advanced into a third round. The suffering of Daisy and her family has been immense, yet her joy remains contagious. Hundreds of thousands have followed her story and shared countless stories of hope and healing inspired by this brave little girl.
Late this summer Daisy and her family will move to Israel, where she’ll begin an innovative form of stem cell transplant. The treatment will be long and costly, but it will give Daisy a new immune system and a new shot at beating cancer, once and for all.
Daisy and her family have been overwhelmed with love from their community and those who’ve come alongside them in this challenging journey. To follow Daisy’s story and learn how you can support her treatment visit: www.prayfordaisy.com