'It could be one of us or one of our kids': Dozens turn out to raise funds for girl battling leukemia



MILL CREEK, Wash. -- Dozens of people came together at the Jet Bar and Grill to help 7-year-old Zaraiyah Broddy, an Edmonds girl fighting leukemia. Even though many community members have never met Z, they’re trying to raise money so her family can take her to California for experimental treatments.

“I had a conversation with her today, told her everyone was getting together because so many people love you,” says Andrea Warner. “She said, 'Really?' with that big smile she has.”

We saw that smile earlier this week, when Q13 Fox News anchor David Rose brought her some gifts from the Marine Corps League and Crime Stoppers of Tacoma/Pierce County. Andrea was there. She says she first heard about Z through some friends on Facebook, and something about the girl’s fight touched her.

“Whether it’s to see her through emotionally or help her out financially or whatever I can do to be of help, that’s just really what I want to do.”

Andrea asked friends if they could donate items for an auction, and join her for Friday night's fundraiser.

Terry Hollimon of The Barbershop was happy to help.

“When we see someone like baby Z going through what’s she’s been going through, it touches our heart. It brings it home that it could be one of us or one of our kids going through that situation.”

He already knew Friday night's event would be a success.

“Hopefully, we’re able to raise some money to help them, but the fact that they can see that people really care and come together and support them, I hope that’s something they can take from this and move forward with it.”

If you would like to help Z and her family, you can donate at https://www.gofundme.com/dmakacjg