In a heartwarming show of community support, hundreds gathered in Richmond Hill, Georgia, to take part in a vibrant balloon parade dedicated to a brave young girl named Jazmynn Allen. This spirited three-year-old, who lives with cerebral palsy, found herself at the center of an uplifting event on Sunday that celebrated her courage and resilience.

Jazmynn’s story began with a challenging start. She was born prematurely at just 32 weeks, weighing only four pounds. Despite her early arrival, doctors initially reassured her mother, Codylynn Allen, that her newborn daughter was healthy enough to go home. However, as the months passed, Codylynn began to notice troubling signs that would soon alter their lives dramatically.

At just ten months old, Jazmynn’s eyes began to roll back, an alarming sight that prompted Codylynn to trust her instincts and rush her daughter to the hospital. During this critical time, Jazmynn’s father, Terrance Gamble, was stationed overseas, unable to return home for three days, leaving Codylynn to face the medical crisis alone.

Recalling those harrowing moments, Codylynn shared, “The doctor held my arm, and I immediately started crying, because I was alone.” It was then they received the devastating news that Jazmynn’s seizures were a result of brain damage due to a lack of oxygen at birth, casting doubt on whether she would ever walk or talk.

Despite these challenges, the Richmond Hill community’s overwhelming support through the balloon parade stands as a testament to the strength and hope that surrounds Jazmynn and her family. Their story continues to inspire many, highlighting the power of community and the unyielding spirit of a little girl who defies the odds every day.

“All of our dreams and plans you imagine when  having a little girl changed completely,” said Allen. 

She was diagnosed with Periventricular Leukomalacia which led to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. 

For years, the family has been flying to St. Louis to see a cerebral palsy specialist who performed Jazmynn’s surgeries.  

Jazmynn is now able to sit on her own and take steps 

This is where the community began carrying the family on their backs. 

Richmond Hill residents were able to donate enough that the family’s flights were free for their first trip to St. Louis. 

Allen and Gamble’s other children would stay at home in Richmond Hill, with their grandmother, whenever they would be out of town for a month at a time. The community brought meals to her children in Richmond Hill every night they were gone. 

“We were still eating meals that were put in the freezer, afterwards for a few weeks, after we even got home,” said Allen. “So, it was a blessing and was able to take a huge load off of us.”

This year when Jazmynn’s birthday came up, Allen knew she wanted to do something specifically for her little girl.

“Jazmynn can’t run or jump in bounce houses for her birthday, so we thought it would be fun to invite people to simply drive by and bring her a balloon,” said Allen. 

Allen posted a call to her Facebook asking anyone who was able to just stop by and bring Jazmynn a balloon her her birthday. 

To the family’s surprise, hundreds drove by honked, smiled, brought balloons and wished the three-year-old happy birthday. 

Jazmynn’s pediatricians, Publix pharmacy employees, fire trucks and the health department all came by bring Ms. Rachel toys, posters and more. 

People who couldn’t come to the parade continued bringing Jazmynn gifts the following day. 

“When we got back in, I cried and I was like, This is amazing,” said Allen.

Allen said Jazmynn fights every day, but remains the happiest little girl. 

“As parents, there are moments when the future feels heavy and uncertain,” said Allen. “But watching Jazmynn smile as car after car drove by, balloons waving and love surrounding her, reminded us that even though her journey looks different, she is never defined by what she can’t do. She is defined by her courage, her joy and the way she brings people together. If love could heal her, she would already be running.” 

Jazmynn’s next trip to St. Louis is in April. To support the family you can donate by clicking or tapping here.