A local family on Hawaii Island is struggling financially after their 6-year-old daughter's leukemia diagnosis, and the community is being asked to pitch in.

• The girl was diagnosed seven months ago and spent most of that time hospitalized in Honolulu for treatment.
• Her dad lost his job and her mom's hours got cut while they focused on her care, and the family has since moved in with relatives to avoid paying rent.
• The relative's home needs repairs (a sinking floor, a falling-apart kitchen) that matter more now since the girl has to stay indoors often to avoid infection.
• The latest tests show the treatment is working, but she still needs monthly testing and ongoing treatment for six more months, meaning repeated trips to Honolulu.
• The family is asking for medical equipment (a wheelchair and walker they're currently borrowing), gift cards for groceries, gas, household goods, and home-improvement stores, plus art supplies for the girl.

Outlook: The family expects continued travel and medical costs over the next six months as doctors monitor for the cancer's return.