Rally for Stella Fundraiser

Help Us Keep Her Family By Her Side

We’re reaching out to our incredible community to support a family that has given so much to others but now needs help.

Stella, a vibrant and feisty 5-year-old, was diagnosed shortly after birth with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Her journey has inspired so much change—her parents were instrumental in adding SMA to Arizona’s newborn screening program. Despite her physical challenges, Stella is a bright, curious, spirited kindergartener who captures hearts wherever she goes.

A Difficult Winter for Stella

In the fall, Stella caught a cold that landed her in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) over Thanksgiving. She recovered and returned to school. However, just weeks later, her weakened immune system faced a “perfect storm” of illnesses—COVID-19, the flu, and another cold as Christmas approached. These illnesses required urgent medical intervention, including intubation on Christmas Eve, as her care team fought to save her life.

Now, nearly six weeks later, Stella remains hospitalized. While she’s making small but steady progress, recovery is demanding everything she has—and everything her parents, Sam and Jeremy, can give.

How You Can Help

We’re asking for your support to raise $3,300 to cover the Lackey family’s health insurance for the next three months. Your generosity can give Sam and Jeremy one less worry as they devote their energy to Stella’s recovery. 

Here’s how you can help:

• Donate to the Fundraiser: 100% of your contributions will go directly to the Lackey family to cover insurance and other essential expenses. Every dollar makes a difference and brings them closer to stability.
• Shop for Stella: This Sunday, 50% of all sales at Wildlings Toy Boutique will be donated to the Lackey family. Shop for something special while directly supporting Stella’s recovery.

If you’re unable to contribute financially, there are still meaningful ways to show your support:

• Make a Card for Stella: Drop it off at Wildlings Toys, and we’ll deliver it to brighten Stella’s day.
• Send Messages and Videos: Share a story or message of encouragement by emailing hello@wildlingstoys.com.
• Gift Cards for Essentials: Coffee, Uber Eats, or gas cards for hospital trips can be dropped off at Wildlings.
• Volunteer Your Expertise: We’re seeking an organizer to help prepare Stella’s room for her return home.

Let’s Lift Them Up

The Lackey family has faced this past year with incredible strength, generosity, and love, but they are understandably exhausted. While we can’t take away the pain of seeing Stella fight for her health, we can help ease their burden.

Donating or shopping this Sunday are the most direct ways to make an impact. Every card, message, or act of kindness still makes a difference for those who cannot contribute financially.

Together, we can give the Lackeys the support they need to focus entirely on Stella’s healing. Thank you for your kindness and generosity in standing by this remarkable family.