In a heartbreaking and heartwarming viral moment, a 9-year-old girl in Los Angeles, California, revealed that not only did she have brain cancer and lose her house in a fire, but she was also on the verge of eviction. The internet, moved by the girl’s kindness, decided to support her, raising more than $300,000, and counting.
The moment was captured by online philanthropist Isaiah Garza. He approached a mother and her daughter, who were packing some things in their vehicle. Saying that he was going through “a little bit of hard times,” Isaiah asked for some food. The 9-year-old California girl, named J’Naii, didn’t hesitate and handed him a can of BBQ Pringles.
Isaiah was touched by her kindness, and eventually, the girl told him her story. She was recently diagnosed with brain cancer. Not only that, but her mother revealed that, before J’Naii’s diagnosis, they had lost their home in the Eaton Fires in Los Angeles.
Tearfully, the California mother then said that they are currently facing eviction. Medical costs and the burden of losing their house led them to be 3 to 4 months behind on rent. “I can’t have my baby in hotels or on the street again,” the mother said. “And she has this condition…“
Isaiah comforted the mother and daughter and then handed them $1,000. They were both shocked and grateful for the touching act of generosity. J’Naii got so excited that she even hugged the philanthropist, who then offered to share their story online, in an effort to further help them.
Then, the 9-year-old California girl called Isaiah an “angel,” adding, “I hope things get better for you.” Of course, with 9.2 million followers, Isaiah was doing just fine, and he was about to change this girl’s life, this time for the better.
Fundraiser Goes Viral
The philanthropist set up a GoFundMe for J’Naii and her family. He wrote, “No child and no family should have to face something like this alone. Together, we can help J’Naii and her family get through this unimaginable time.”
Users, moved by J’Naii’s story, made it go viral. The clip was seen millions of times, and more than 21,000 people commented. One user said, “The exhaustion in mama’s cry broke me! Praying for this family.” Another one commented, “And all of a sudden… all of my problems are small.” A third one added, “Joke’s on you, I was already planning on crying.”
As of the writing of this article, the people have donated more than $321,000 out of the $330,000 goal in just three days. It is safe to say that they will reach their goal and even surpass it, giving the family the ability to pay rent and J’Naii a chance to fight another day.
