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'A Lot Of People Love You': Community Unites To Fulfill A 10-Year-Old Cancer Warrior's Dream

August 27, 2024

A 10-year-old girl battling cancer received the surprise of a lifetime: tickets to see her idol, Taylor Swift, in concert.

Kennedy Coke, a vibrant and resilient young warrior, has faced more challenges in her short life than most people endure in a lifetime. Diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at just two years old, Kennedy has spent much of her childhood bravely battling the disease.

@jocoke

It all began when a routine visit to urgent care for a common cold led to the discovery of a lung tumor, a consequence of a rare genetic condition called DICER 1 syndrome. This syndrome makes it difficult for her body to suppress tumors, leading to multiple health battles. Despite the odds, Kennedy overcame her initial diagnosis, becoming miraculously cancer-free after enduring chemotherapy and numerous treatments.

However, Kennedy’s journey took another difficult turn in January 2024, when doctors discovered thyroid tumors during a routine scan. She underwent surgery and once again showed incredible resilience. But just six months later, her condition worsened, and doctors found an aggressive uterine cancer. Now, at just 10 years old, Kennedy faces the daunting prospect of a hysterectomy followed by more chemotherapy.

As she prepared for yet another battle, Kennedy’s spirit began to wane. Her mother, Jodi Hill Coke, knew her daughter needed something to lift her up and give her hope. Kennedy, a huge Taylor Swift fan, dreamed of attending the pop star’s Eras Tour, but with the tour’s tickets selling for thousands of dollars, it seemed an impossible dream.

That’s when the community stepped in. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help make Kennedy’s dream come true, and the response was overwhelming. Strangers from all over donated more than $16,000, wanting to bring joy to a little girl who has fought so hard for so long.

In a touching TikTok video, Jodi surprised Kennedy with the tickets. As she handed her daughter the envelope, Jodi told her, “A lot, a lot of people love you very much.” Kennedy’s face lit up with joy as she realized her dream had come true. “Kennedy’s dream came true!!! After her first 12 weeks of chemo, she will be going to the Eras Tour!” Jodi captioned the video.

@jocoke Kennedys dream came true!!! After her first 12 weeks of chemo, she will be going to to Era’s Tour!!!!! #erastour #childhoodcancer #taylornation ♬ original sound - Jodi Hill Coke

Kennedy will be attending Taylor Swift’s concert on November 3, the final U.S. date of the tour. For Kennedy, this isn’t just a concert; it’s a beacon of hope and a reminder that she is surrounded by love and support from countless people who believe in her strength.

This incredible act of kindness has given Kennedy a reason to keep fighting, proving once again that the power of community, love and compassion can bring light to even the darkest of times.