x
Breaking News
More () »

Three-year-old Minnesota girl gets parade on her last day of chemo

Mabel Franks has been battling cancer for more than two years.

PRIOR LAKE, Minn. — After battling cancer for two-thirds of her life, a Prior Lake girl had earned a party on her last day of chemotherapy.

On Sunday, with help from family and friends, 3-year-old Mabel Franks got one – despite social distancing restrictions due to COVID-19.

“We just felt we had to do something to let her know how proud we are and what a warrior and survivor she’s been,” Joan Franks, Mabel’s grandmother said.

First, Prior Lake fire trucks, then, dozens of decorated cars, rolled through the cul-de-sac where Mabel lives with her big sister Meadow and parents Michael and Meagan.

Mabel smiled and waved from her father's arms. 

“It’s really all she’s known, since she was 14 months old, she’s been going through treatments,” Meagan Franks said.

Doctors diagnosed Mabel with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.  Much of her chemo was delivered intravenously, but her final treatment Sunday night was in the form of a pill.  Extended family watched and cheered on video chat as Mabel swallowed the medication.

“I’m just really grateful and we’ve had an amazing support system as you can see,” Mabel’s mother said after the parade while wiping away tears. “It’s very emotional.”

RELATED: States move at various speeds over coronavirus; China reports just 3 new cases

RELATED: After Trump comment, MN Poison Control caller wonders where to buy 'safe' bleach to use 'internally'

KARE 11’s coverage of the coronavirus is rooted in Facts, not Fear. Visit kare11.com/coronavirus for comprehensive coverage, find out what you need to know about the Midwest specifically, learn more about the symptoms, and see what companies in Minnesota are hiring. Have a question? Text it to us at 763-797-7215. And get the latest coronavirus updates sent right to your inbox every morning. Subscribe to the KARE 11 Sunrise newsletter here. Help local families in need: www.kare11.com/give11

The state of Minnesota has set up a hotline for general questions about coronavirus at 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903, available 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There is also a data portal online at mn.gov/covid19.

Before You Leave, Check This Out