Leah’s Fight: Bravery, Heart, and the Brightest Smile

Leah’s Fight: Bravery, Heart, and the Brightest Smile

Some children show a level of courage that leaves a mark on everyone they meet. Leah is one of those extraordinary little warriors.

In March, life changed quickly for Leah and her family. What started as breathing difficulties led to a short stay at Sterling ER—then an emergency flight to Children’s Hospital in Aurora. From the moment she arrived, Leah showed no signs of improvement. Her fevers were relentless, her breathing was dangerously weak, and her tiny heart was working overtime just to keep her stable.

She stayed on IV fluids from the moment she arrived. A few nights later, everything took a frightening turn. After hours of trying to get her oxygen level above 85—even with high-flow oxygen at 12 liters—Leah wasn’t responding.

At 12:38 a.m., the worst moment no parent ever wants to experience happened. A full code and Rapid Response Team was called. Within minutes, more than 30 doctors, nurses, respiratory specialists, and emergency staff filled Leah’s room and the hallway outside. It was overwhelming, terrifying, and unforgettable.

Her fight continued. Fevers spiked. A feeding tube was placed. Imaging revealed fluid around her heart—fluid that urgently needed to be drained. Despite constant care, she struggled day after day, pushing through more than many adults ever endure.

Even after being discharged, Leah’s journey was far from over. She continued fighting at home with oxygen support, therapy sessions, and countless hospital visits.

But in the middle of all the medical chaos, Leah remained Leah—sweet, shy, strong, and full of quiet magic.

In April, Kids1st had the blessing of meeting her in person. Amanda and I delivered toys, hoping to brighten her day. It took her exactly 1.83 seconds to spot the giant duck in the toy bin—immediately named “Big Duck” with zero hesitation. Naturally, we opened every toy because we had to play with everything, and watching her excitement was unforgettable.

Leah is incredibly talented at drawing, and I even learned all about “Blippin’” during our visit. Amanda got some baby time while I chatted with Jess, and although Leah was shy—who wouldn’t be after everything she’s endured?—her strength was unmistakable. What a tough kid.

A huge thank-you goes to Nana Kari for making that first introduction possible.

Update:
We were thrilled to see Leah again at the fair this July, where she and her family ran their very own lemonade stand. Leah was doing great—still shy, but growing, healing, and smiling in that quiet way that warms your heart. Their stand was packed with people lining up for amazing lemonade, iced tea, and treats. Watching her thrive after such a difficult year was nothing short of inspiring.

Kids1st will continue cheering on Leah and staying connected with her journey. She is a shining example of strength, courage, and the beautiful resilience kids can carry even after the hardest battles.