Meet Kaylee!

Last September, not long before her 8^th birthday, Kaylee was diagnosed with eosinophilic fasciitis, a rare condition that occurs when eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in a number of inflammatory processes, cause thickening and inflammation of the connective tissue under the skin. Over time, the tissue may harden and give an irregular, pitted appearance to the skin, resembling the skin of an orange peel.

The condition caused Kaylee’s feet to become hardened and as a result, she began to have difficulty moving them like she did before, which impacted her ability to play sports.

Kaylee was also diagnosed with other conditions, including scleroderma, and it wasn’t long before she began a treatment course that included IV infusions, and frequent blood tests.

Kaylee’s message of hope to those who are struggling with an eosinophil-associated disease or other chronic conditions: “Dream it. Believe it. Achieve it.”

“Kaylee never gave up,” her mother Amberly shares. “She and I made a promise to one another to always keep a positive outlook and to make the absolute best of the situation. Despite all she has gone through, she continues to keep a smile on her face and do what she can to help others.”

The first few IV treatments were very hard for Kaylee. One day she asked her mother to turn on music during her treatment which helped calm her and made the experience better. “A few short months into treatment, Kaylee knew she wanted to inspire everyone who is going through a hard time,” says Amberly. Whether it’s a chronic medical condition like eosinophilic fasciitis, or social challenges like bullying, everyone goes through something difficult at some point in time, and Kaylee wanted to share the message of hope.”

Kaylee soon wrote and recorded a song, “Hold On,” which she makes freely available through online music platforms. She has also forged ahead by supporting the work of community charities, such as fighting huger, making a cleaner environment, and supporting U.S. troops. Today, Kaylee is a social media influencer for kids, and supports the efforts of community charities by helping to fight hunger, environmentalism, and supporting U.S. troops.  Last year, she became an ambassador for the girl’s clothing line, Justice.

To hear Kaylee’s song, Hold On, or to connect with her and share how you are spreading joy, visit https://www.itskayleerenee.com/.