At the recent City Commission meeting, Leesburg Mayor Jimmy Burry declared September 2024 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support for families affected by this devastating disease. The proclamation comes as the local community rallies around Haley Williams, a brave young girl currently battling leukemia, and her family. To show their support, the commissioners wore “HaleyStrong” orange t-shirts and wrist bands.

Haley has been surrounded by an outpouring of love and support since her diagnosis. Her parents, Craig and Lena Williams, have openly shared their daughter’s courageous fight against cancer through the Facebook group “HaleyStrong.” The group has become a beacon of hope and unity, with regular updates on Haley’s progress and expressions of gratitude for the unwavering support they’ve received.

The “HaleyStrong” movement has inspired many in the community to show their support by wearing orange, the color associated with leukemia awareness, and by putting up signs and wearing shirts.

Mayor Burry’s proclamation highlighted the stark reality of childhood cancer: “One in 285 children in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer by their 20th birthday, and 46 children per day, or 16,790 children per year, are diagnosed.” He urged the community to continue to come together to raise awareness and support efforts to find a cure.

The Williams family has remained grateful for the outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, and healthcare professionals.

As Leesburg comes together for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the community is reminded of the importance of supporting families like the Williamses, who are fighting this battle every day.