Last year, just before Thanksgiving Day, the Overfield family discovered that their 22-year-old-daughter, Hallie, had stage 3 Hodgkins lymphoma (cancer).

Hallie was immediately admitted to MD Anderson in Houston where she remained for five days. On the fifth day, she began receiving chemo treatments.

Hallie is the daughter of Glenn and Kathy Overfield of Zachary and granddaughter of former Baker Mayor Pete Heine. She also has a sister, Tommie Overfield.

The trips to Houston were frequent for Hallie and Kathy, her mom. They would return to Houston every week for six weeks and continued with her chemo treatments at Mary Bird Perkins in Baton Rouge.

Eventually, Hallie traveled to Houston just once a month.

Soon, she will have to make the Houston trips only every three months for one year and then fewer visits thereafter until she reaches the five year mark.

In September, Hallie and Kathy were returning home from MD Anderson one day when their van was struck by lightning as they passed through Bridge City, Texas, on the interstate.

"This van that had so faithfully taken us back and forth to MD Anderson was completely totaled," Kathy said. "We now face the reality of obtaining new transportation."

Kathy is on extended leave from Zachary Early Learning Center.

Hallie has been unable to work since being diagnosed, and she has hopes and dreams of returning to college in January.

"Friends and family have been so wonderful," a family friend said. "The Overfields are very grateful."

A fund for Hallie, called Hallie's Who Dats since she is a huge New Orleans Saints fan, has been set up to assist the Overfields with medical expenses not covered by insurance.

All funds received will go toward Hallie's medical expenses. Visit www.giveforward.com/hallieswhodats for more information.

Citizens are asked to consider joining Hallie's Who Dats and making a donation. No amount is too small, and all donations are greatly appreciated, the family says.

Donations can also be mailed to: 22525 Fairway View, Zachary LA 70791.

On behalf of Hallie, the Overfields thank you for your prayers and support.

"Please continue to keep Hallie in your prayers as she continues her recovery fighting like a girl!" Kathy said.