Taylor Swift Gifts $100K to Young Cancer Patient Who Calls Her ‘Friend’

## A Heartwarming Gesture

Recently, Katelynn Smoot shared a touching video featuring her young daughter, Lilah, who is courageously battling an aggressive form of brain cancer. In the clip, Lilah joyfully watches Taylor Swift’s music video for “The Fate of Ophelia” and excitedly exclaims, “That’s my friend!”

The video quickly gained traction on social media, with many showing their support for Lilah on Katelynn’s @standwithlilah page. Swift noticed Lilah’s story and made a generous $100,000 donation to her GoFundMe for medical expenses, accompanied by a heartfelt message: “Sending the biggest hug to my friend, Lilah! Love, Taylor.”

@standwithlilah

I cannot say thank you enough. I’m truly in shock. This means we don’t have to worry about anything other than Lilah. Truly such a blessing. Thank you @Taylor Swift

♬ original sound – The Smoots

## Generosity Inspires Others

Swift’s kind gesture has motivated many of her fans, often referred to as Swifties, to contribute to the fundraiser as well. Many donations have come in the amount of $13, a nod to Swift’s favorite number. By the latest count, the fundraiser has surpassed $167,000 thanks to the support of over 2,000 generous donors.

In light of the six-figure contribution from Swift, Katelynn shared a joyful video of herself and Lilah dancing to “The Life of Ophelia.” Smoot expressed their immense gratitude in her caption, saying, “Thank you beyond words, Taylor Swift. We can now just focus on being here with our girl. Truly, we are so grateful… You have no idea what this means to our family.”

@standwithlilah

I didn’t know they were friends 😂 @Taylor Swift @Taylor Nation #fateofopheliataylorswift #TLOASG #taylorswift

♬ original sound – The Smoots

## Lilah’s Journey

The GoFundMe campaign was initiated when Lilah began her chemotherapy in March. Katelynn revealed that her daughter was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive stage 4 brain tumor after experiencing a seizure. The tumor was surgically removed, and she has been undergoing chemotherapy since.

In an August update, Smoot shared details about Lilah’s upcoming treatment, stating, “After [an MRI and LP], she will start 6 weeks of proton radiation, where our family will have to travel to [Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia] for her to receive.” The family has expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing how crucial the donations have been to cover travel costs and everyday expenses while Lilah is in treatment.

How has this story affected you? Would you consider supporting similar causes?