It has been 53 days since Ashtyn’s bone marrow transplant. She has been home from the hospital for 22 days. I plan on having a post up by Monday morning giving you an update on her. I will let you know details on how she is doing and what she’s been up to. Overall she is doing great. There have been some emotional battles trying to get back into the swing of things, but there’s been improvements each day.

“Every life has peaks and shadows and times when it seems that the birds don’t sing and bells don’t ring. Yet in spite of discouragement and adversity, those who are happiest seem to have a way of learning from difficult times, becoming stronger, wiser, and happier as a result.” Elder Wirthlin

Thank you for sharing with me some touching stories of families in need of Ashtyn’s Army. It is our desire to help many families with the efforts and prayers of our cause. The stories I received touched my heart, like the story of Presley Claverie. After I familiarized myself with the Claverie family and their story, I was compelled to call Alysa, Presley’s mom, and tell her about Ashtyn’s Army and our desire to do a fundraiser on their behalf. I explained that someone had contacted me regarding Presley and the trials she and her family were facing. Alysa was so grateful for my phone call and for a chance to share her story. She needs the help of Ashtyn’s Army to bolster their family during this trial. We hope to focus and put efforts into helping them as Presley battles Leukemia.

Here is Presley’s story written by her mom:

Presley Ann Claverie was born on December 8, 2009 to Paul and Alysa Claverie. She is their first child and is adored by all who know her. Especially, her baby brother, Crew, age 2. She is an active little girl who loves being outside, riding her bike, playing games, reading books and playing with her little brother. From a very young age this lovable little lady has won the hearts of all who meet her. Her sweet and content personality, bouncing curls, and beautiful smile are captivating.

On March 10, 2013, Paul and Alysa’s world was turned upside down. Their darling little girl was sick, and they received the devastating news no parent ever wants to hear. “Your child has cancer.”

Presley was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at just 3 years old. In order to receive the best care for their precious daughter, they moved their family from Cedar City to Salt Lake City to begin treatment at Primary Children’s Hospital. Although doctors have given Presley a good prognosis, the devastation of this cancer is still prevalent. Presley will undergo treatment for over two years. This includes multiple lumbar punctures (chemo inserted into the spine), bone marrow biopsies, blood transfusions, and countless trips to Primary Children’s for chemotherapy and other procedures. In addition to the stress and heartache of Presley’s illness, her daddy, Paul, sadly lost his job just 6 week after her diagnosis. The financial strain on this little family is more than anyone should have to bear.

This trial has been, and will continue to be, a long and overwhelming journey for Presley and her family. With a lot of love, prayers, and community support we believe that brave little Presley will come out on top!

You can follow her courageous journey at www.hopeforpresley.blogspot.com

We have collaborated with Jim Geurts, the charity organizer, and through AYSO he set up a charity for Presley’s family. Please read his information below:

In an effort to give back to our local community, we the organizers of the CHASL are organizing a 3V3 Soccer tournament to be held on August 17 entrance fees will all be donated to 2 local charities. Some of the collected money will go to a Scholarship Fund for the AYSO youth league region 126 to help sponsor kids with an interest in soccer but not the means. We would also like to team up with Ashtyn’s Army to begin a annual partnership to seek out a local family in need of financial assistance from the likes of unexpected tragedy or medical costs. This is in an effort to fuse our local community to a common goal, and do our part to reach out to our neighbors in need. We will seek to get as much of the material needs and people power donated from AYSO region 126, 5030 and any members of Ashtyn’s Army looking to lend a hand locally. We foresee this year as a learning experience and expect the event to grow each year. Hopefully this will engender a sense of giving and service from those of us who can, to those who are in need.

This tournament will be open to Men, Women and kids age 14 (by the date of July 31 teams will be randomly selected with a cross section of all players on each team. We expect 100-200 + participants and are looking to charge $15 for participation, with a T-shirt given to each participant. We are also looking into holding a raffle and selling raffle tickets for items to be donated by local businesses.

Cottonwood Heights Adult Soccer League is hosting an open invitation 3 V 3 soccer tournament for charity. The tournament will be held Saturday August 17 8:30 in the morning. You are welcome to register a full team, or as a single participant. Each participant must complete an individual registration form, whether they are a part of a team, or registering as an individual. The registration fee is 15.00 per player, and this includes a T-shirt, and a guarantee of a minimum of 3 games. If registering as a complete team, each team must consist of 1 player U21, 1 player over 30, and 1 female player. Each team can have a maximum of 6 players, and each player must register and pay the 15.00 to participate. If you register as a single player you will be placed on a team before the start of the tournament. The registration deadline to participate is Thursday August 15 minimum age to participate is 14 years old as of July 31th 2013.

If any of you would be willing to volunteer during the soccer tournament on August 17th, there is a need. Please let me know. Thank you Ashtyn’s Army!!!