A Tri-State community held an emotional and colorful farewell ceremony Wednesday in Muhlenberg County.
Residents lined the street for a balloon release to show support for the family of 4-year-old Emma Joy Ford who lost her battle with cancer earlier this week.
"She's touched people like nobody would ever believe it," said Melonie Anderson, a member of Team Emma.
On Wednesday, hundreds of residents and members of the group Team Emma said one last goodbye.
"A little girl being four, having to go through so much, but our hearts go out to the family," said supporter Gale Fulkerson.
"I know she's up there in Heaven dancing to Justin Beiber," Anderson said.
A close friend of the family says Emma was first diagnosed with cancer when she was two. She defeated the disease about a year later, but relapsed three months ago. This past Sunday, Emma lost her battle with cancer.
"Knowing Emma, I know that she is smiling down on us today. I know that's why the beautiful sunshine is out. I'm thrilled and so happy that our community has pulled together like it has and you can see that she was loved," Anderson said.
"This small town still has a big heart and whenever they need to come together, everybody's going to come together," Fulkerson said.
Members of Team Emma say the fight against cancer doesn't stop now. A Facebook group called "Prayer Circle for Emma Joy Ford" has connected nearly 17,000 nationwide to bring awareness and remember the life of Emma.
"On Facebook, people from Florida and everywhere are letting balloons go at 12:30 p.m., so it's really great," said Nancy Morris, another member of Team Emma.
Family and close friends say they want thank the community for all their support and as tragic as the loss of Emma is, continuing to raise awareness will help ease the pain.
If you'd like to donate to the Ford family, you can go to First Kentucky Bank in Greenville, Ky at 145 N. Main St. The account is Emma Joy Ford Special Account. You can also mail donations to P.O. Box 547, Greenville, Ky, 42345.
Source: Kelly Foster Peay, Prayer Circle for Emma Joy Ford Facebook page
Source: Prayer circle for Emma Joy Ford Facebook page
Source: Vanessa Sigers, Prayer Circle for Emma Joy Ford Facebook page
