In the heart of Hockley, a small community has rallied around a remarkable little girl named Abby Clark. Abby received her leukemia diagnosis in August 2024, shortly before turning two years old.
Abby’s battle began with persistent low-grade fevers and fatigue, symptoms that led her parents to seek medical advice. After a series of tests, they received the devastating news: Abby had leukemia, which had spread to her spinal fluid and brain.
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Despite facing a tough treatment regimen, Abby’s unstoppable spirit shines through as her parents describe her as a joyful child who finds happiness in the simplest things.
This infectious positivity inspired the family’s motto, “Happy Like Abby,”.
“She’s just a happy girl,” Jen said. “Even on the brutal days, she always finds a way to be silly and joyful. We call them little glimmers. It’s inspiring as a parent to watch your child choose happiness, even when you could easily just mope about it.”
Mike added, “We’ll be in tears during a rough chemo day, and she’ll look over at us and say, ‘Mom, Dad — it’s okay,’ and then go back to playing. It’s heartbreaking and incredible at the same time.”
When Abby’s third birthday approached during a period of medical isolation, her parents reached out to their neighbors with a simple request: Walk your dogs past our house to bring a smile to Abby’s face.
The response was overwhelming. Over 100 community members, along with local fire and police departments, participated in a parade of support.
“We posted on our neighborhood Facebook page asking if anyone might walk by our house with their dogs because she loves dogs,” Jen shared. “We thought maybe five people would show up, but over 100 came. Neighbors, community members, the fire department, the police department. It was unbelievable. None of them knew us, and they still showed up for our little girl.”
Abby’s bond with her five-year-old brother, Connor, has been a source of strength for the family. A viral video capturing Connor’s visit to Abby’s hospital room showcased their deep connection.
As Abby continues her treatment, her family remains hopeful and grateful for the outpouring of love and support. They look forward to the day when they can enjoy simple pleasures again, like a trip to the beach or a visit to the park.
“It’s the little things we miss, just getting out and seeing people, interacting with them. We just want to go to a beach, somewhere like Port Aransas,” Jennifer said. “She hasn’t been able to go to a park, or even a Target. Things you take for granted when you’re healthy feel like luxuries now. We just want to feel normal for a little while.”
Follow Abby’s journey on Instagram @abbysleukemiafight and TikTok @supertiredparents.